Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope on Leeds United's radar amid Ipswich Town 'talks'
Newcastle United man on Leeds United's radar amid Ipswich Town 'talks'
Leeds United reportedly have Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope on their radar - but may have to battle Ipswich Town for his signature.
It promises to be an interesting summer in the goalkeeping department at Elland Road, with three of the club’s four senior goalkeepers out of contract at the end of the month.
Karl Darlow, Illan Meslier and Alex Cairns all have deals due to expire in the coming weeks, but are not the only ones facing uncertain futures. Lucas Perri, a £15.6m acquisition from Lyon, last made a Premier League appearance in January having been dislodged by Darlow.
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Leeds United linked with Newcastle United’s Nick Pope
According to the Shields Gazette, England-capped goalkeeper Pope is on Leeds’ radar heading into the summer transfer window.
It has been suggested he could be available for around £5m, with Newcastle seemingly closing in on the capture of Stade de Reims goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen.
Pope is thought to have been made available for transfer by Newcastle, who are reportedly keen to avoid losing him on a free transfer next summer. Newly-promoted Ipswich are said to have engaged in talks over a deal for Pope, who made 36 appearances in all competitions last season.
Leeds United’s goalkeeping department
Reports have indicated Leeds will look to retain Darlow, Pope’s former Newcastle teammate, after the 35-year-old’s impressive run between the sticks. They have also indicated another goalkeeper will be sought by the Leeds recruitment chiefs following Perri’s underwhelming campaign.
Darlow, however, has been reported as a target for Leeds’ Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur. With Meslier expected to depart and Cairns yet to appear since returning to the club in 2024, Leeds may be left with just Perri as a genuine option if Darlow departs.
Pope boasts a wealth of experience and while he may not be the most modern of ball-playing goalkeepers, he is a commanding presence and a strong shot-stopper.