Newcastle United's Alexander Isak, Nick Pope and Anthony Gordon applaud the travelling fans at Brentford
Newcastle United's Alexander Isak, Nick Pope and Anthony Gordon applaud the travelling fans at Brentford
Newcastle United spent last summer looking to sign a proven Premier League quality central defender, and could turn their attentions to another forward player in the January transfer window.
But Eddie Howe, Paul Mitchell and the club's recruitment team have been warned they may need to target a different area of the squad if they want to achieve their big ambitions. Former Tottenham defender Jason Cundy feels they need to improve their goalkeeping options after seeing United concede seven goals in their last two Premier League games.
Nick Pope was hugely missed last season after having to sit out several months following a shoulder injury, but has been a consistent presence in the side again this season. He was a key man in helping the club reach fourth place in 2023, earning Champions League qualification, but there have been some question marks over one or two performances this season.
United signed Odysseas Vlachodimos and John Ruddy in the summer as back-up, with Martin Dubravka regularly on the bench as cover for Pope, and they have been heavily linked with a move for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford. It's something Cundy feels they will have to address if the Magpies want to make the step up in class.
Speaking on talksSPORT, Cundy said: “If Newcastle want to be where they feel they should be, and that’s in and around those top European places, I'm not sure he’s good enough. I’m not sure he’s going to be good enough.
“If Newcastle really want to move towards where they want to be, I think Nick Pope will probably find himself surplus to requirements.”
Only seven Premier League sides have conceded more goals than United this season, although that picture has changed dramatically after the 3-3 draw with Liverpool and Saturday's 4-2 defeat at Brentford. Howe is hoping to have central defender Sven Botman available early in 2025, with the Dutch star recovering from ACL surgery.
United have kept three clean sheets this season, the opening-day 1-0 win over Southampton, the goalless draw at Everton and a 1-0 success at St James' Park against Arsenal.