Exclusive: Nick Pope's stance on joining Leeds revealed after Newcastle update

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Published on:

02 Jun 2025, 9:06 am

Nick Pope's preference is to remain at Newcastle United this summer - even if James Trafford joins the club, sources have told Football Insider.

Pope, 33, has been widely linked with a move to newly-promoted Leeds United this summer.

Daniel Farke's side are desperate to add a new first-choice goalkeeper after Illan Meslier's struggles at Elland Road in the 2024-25 campaign.

However, sources say Pope wants to remain at Newcastle and fight for a first-choice berth at St James' Park next season.

Pope ready to reject Leeds move

It is believed there is no guarantee Trafford will join the Magpies this summer with Burnley set to drive a hard bargain for his signature.

Football Insider revealed on Saturday (31 May) that Newcastle may be forced to overpay to land a deal for the young shot-stopper.

Appearances	95
Minutes Played	8478
Goals Conceded	93
Clean Sheets	35
Yellow Cards	10
Red Cards	1

Pope's Newcastle record (2022 - present)

Pope fought Martin Dubravka for a starting role in Eddie Howe's plans in the 2024-25 campaign as the Tyneside club qualified for the Champions League and won the League Cup.

He made 32 appearances across all competitions, notching nine clean sheets and conceding 39 goals.

The England international, who arrived at Newcastle in 2022, is under contract at St James' Park until June 2026.

Trafford is a top target for Newcastle. (Credit: Hasan Karim, Breaking Media)

Newcastle ready to sign star winger

Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (1 June) that Newcastle have identified West Ham star Mohammed Kudus as a key target if they miss out on a deal to sign Bryan Mbeumo.

Newcastle could sign Kudus at a discounted price should they make a move this summer.

The West Ham star is also attracting interest in Saudi Arabia but is ready to reject a move to the Middle East.

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