Leeds United Nick Pope
(Credit: Hasan Karim)
MOT Leeds News speaking to Ian Darke
Thu 3 July 2025 20:10, UK
Nick Pope continues to be linked with a move to Leeds United.
Daniel Farke’s side are in the market for a new starting goalkeeper as they look to ensure Premier League survival upon their return to the top-flight.
Illan Meslier was dropped for Karl Darlow in the run-in last season and neither have made a compelling case that they should be given another chance.
The Elland Road side may have been handed a boost in their pursuit of the ex-Burnley man by the latest developments from Newcastle.
Illan Meslier's stats in the Championship for Leeds United last season.
Meslier’s stats in the league last season. (Credit: Imago)
Newcastle near Trafford agreement as Leeds eye Pope
Newcastle are closing on a deal for James Trafford, with an agreement almost complete with Burnley for his signature.
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Iconic commentator Ian Darke has backed the Whites to secure a deal for Pope after those developments on Tyneside.
Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, he said: “If they can come up with the money and Pope fancies the move, it does look like a bit of a goer.
“I don’t think they will be totally convinced about Pope, he is not great at distributing from the back, that is why he has not got more England caps than he would have done, because his distribution and that side of his game is not as good as a lot of other goalkeepers.
“He is a really good shot stopper, though, which is a big consideration. I think he would be a terrific signing.
“Leeds have to get a goalkeeper because we have discussed time and time again, Meslier made mistakes and looked a liability, and they put Darlow in towards the end of the season, but they would not have him as their Premier League number one.
“They need an established top-flight goalkeeper. Pope would fit the bill if they can make the finances fit and if the player fancies that move.
“I would imagine there may be a couple of other clubs sniffing around him, so they may need to get their skates on.”
🚨⚪️⚫️ Newcastle are closing in on James Trafford deal, final details being sorted!
Agreement almost done with Burnley and then it will be here we go.
Newcastle are planning to get the deal done very doon. pic.twitter.com/1saCmKwmHY
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 30, 2025
View Tweet
Pope would be an amazing signing for Leeds
If the LS11 outfit had Pope between the sticks, it would increase their chances of staying up exponentially, as he is a proven keeper in the top division.
The 33-year-old kept eight clean sheets and conceded 35 goals in 28 matches last season and he would bring stability to the Whites’ backline.
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