Nick Pope could sign for Leeds.
(Credit: Imago)
Declan Carr
Mon 2 June 2025 7:40, UK
Leeds United are set to add a starting goalkeeper to their squad this summer.
Illan Meslier was the starter for the majority of last season, but he fell out of favour after several high-profile mistakes that nearly cost the Whites promotion.
Daniel Farke is keen on a new number one as the Elland Road outfit make their return to the Premier League, with Karl Darlow not seen as a starting quality long-term.
In step, Nick Pope.
Illan Meslier
Meslier lost his place in the starting line-up. (Credit: Imago)
Leeds could sign Pope as Newcastle doubts emerge
Pope is a top-class top-flight goalkeeper and would solve the Peacocks’ problems in the position.
A report from the print edition of the Daily Mail (2 June, page 69) claims that Leeds are keen on the Newcastle star.
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It states that he could be sold if Eddie Howe’s side pulls off a £30million swoop for Burnley star James Trafford, despite their promotion.
Leeds target Nick Pope's stats for Newcastle in the Premier League 2024-25 season.
Pope’s stats for Newcastle in the league this season.
Pope would be a huge upgrade for Leeds
Farke needs somebody that he can trust implicitly between the sticks, and the England star would give the German exactly that, rather than having to rely on Meslier or Darlow.
Pope has been the Magpies’ number one for the last few years and even helped them win the Carabao Cup earlier this season, with a 2-1 win over league champions Liverpool.
The 49ers need to back their manager significantly in the transfer market with signings that are ready for the step-up to the elite level rather than unproven prospects.
If they could pull off a deal to sign Pope, it would be the perfect start to business as he would be a crucial asset in their survival bid and give them a much better chance of staying in the top-flight.
A transfer for Caoimhin Kelleher seems to be a non-starter, with the Reds star expected to move to Brentford to replace Mark Flekken, but if the Whites could nab the 33-year-old instead, it may end up being the better option.
One thing is for sure, they need a new goalkeeper this summer, and their targets are certainly encouraging for the fanbase, whether they can secure the right deals though, remains to be seen.
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