Nick Pope
(Credit: Imago)
Rahul Lakhani
Tue 3 June 2025 15:19, UK
Leeds are in the market for a new goalkeeper as a priority this summer, and are keen on Newcastle veteran Nick Pope.
Illan Meslier endured a disastrous season as he was dropped amid fears that his constant mistakes would cost Leeds promotion.
Karl Darlow stepped in for the remainder of the campaign as Leeds won the Championship, but if they are to survive in the top flight, they will need an upgrade between the posts.
Pope has bags of Premier League experience under his belt, and with Newcastle needing to trim their goalkeeping department, he is the subject of interest from Leeds.
Leeds want to replace Meslier this summer (Credit: Imago)
Pope wants Newcastle stay despite Leeds interest
Despite reports that Newcastle are keen on signing a new goalkeeper such as James Trafford, it appears that Pope does not want to leave his club.
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Chronicle Live (3 June) have now reported that the 33-year-old wants to stay at Newcastle and play a part in the Champions League next season, even if he is the second-choice option overall.
Goalkeeper Games Goals conceded Clean sheets
Meslier 39 27 21
Meslier’s stats do not tell the full story
Leeds made an enquiry over Pope but it was rebuffed, as Pope has no intention of moving this summer, and has two years left on his contract at St James’ Park.
The Whites need to sign a Premier League-ready goalkeeper to replace Meslier, but Pope may no longer be an option this summer.
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.
Leeds running out of goalkeeper targets
Leeds need to speed up their search for a new goalkeeper, with several other Premier League clubs signing in the position, and they are running out of key targets.
Caoimhin Kelleher could have been a strong signing, but he has now agreed to join Brentford from Liverpool, while Burnley will also be in the market for a goalkeeper if Trafford joins Newcastle.
Clubs such as West Ham are also in the hunt for a new shotstopper, meaning there is a lot of competition for a small pool of available goalkeepers, and Leeds will have to move quickly if they are to secure a signing who can help keep them up.
Meslier cannot be considered an option, and this may end up being the most important signing Daniel Farke makes this summer.
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