Leeds United are interested in a move for Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope, according to Mail Online.
Leeds United will look to secure the services of the experienced Premier League goalkeeper, as they aim to strengthen their squad following their promotion last season. LUFC will have a top flight stay on their radar, so they must recruit well.
Newcastle United are pursuing the signing of James Trafford, who impressed at Burnley last season after a deal for the goalkeeper fell through for the Magpies last summer. This signing could lead to Pope’s departure from the club, who he has played for since 2022.
Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford
Image courtesy of: LEE SMITH/REUTERS.
Last season, Leeds United’s first choice goalkeeper Illan Meslier made a number of errors in important matches, something which resulted in him being dropped for Karl Darlow for the final seven matches of the season.
It is for this reason that one of LUFC’s priorities ahead of their return to the Premier League is the signing of a new goalkeeper. Caoimhin Kelleher was another player they were interested in, however he is now set for a £18m move to Brentford.
As such, the Whites have turned their eyes to Newcastle United man Pope.
He has more than proven himself in the Premier League, also picking up six caps for England in the process, something that will be appeal to Leeds United as they look to bring in a reliable shot-stopper.
Pope’s experience
One of the key qualities that Leeds United are looking for in a goalkeeper is their experience and this is something that Pope has gained in the Premier League.
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The 33-year-old made his first appearance in the league for Burnley back in 2017 and since then, he has been a first-choice goalkeeper, amassing 221 Premier League appearances throughout his career.
leeds united, Leeds United interested in Premier League ‘keeper as Kelleher heads for Brentford
Image courtesy of: LEE SMITH/REUTERS.
He also featured for Newcastle in their 2023 Champions League campaign and started in their Carabao Cup final victory against Liverpool in February. These are key moments in his career which will appeal to LUFC should Newcastle wish to sell him.
Leeds United’s Premier League preparations
After securing the Championship title on the final day of the season, Leeds United have turned their attention to next season and how their side will line up in the Premier League.
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Daniel Farke’s side are aiming to recruit in a number of positions alongside a new goalkeeper. The expiration of Junior Firpo’s contract means that a new left-back may also be a priority signing for the club, with a number of names already being rumoured as his replacement.
They will also look to keep hold of their squad that picked up 100 points last season, including signing Manor Solomon permanently, someone who played a key part in their success whilst on loan from Tottenham.