‘Nick Pope backed to succeed at Man United as Newcastle exit looms’
Manchester United have set their sights on Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope as Ruben Amorim continues to strengthen his ranks at Old Trafford.
Red Devils shotstopper Andre Onana made errors between the sticks as Amorim’s men finished just 15th in the Premier League last term.
Amid the North West giants’ desire to strengthen their goalkeeping options, Manchester United have eyed Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez.
But the Old Trafford club seemingly have a greater chance of acquiring Pope than the 2022 World Cup winner, as Newcastle are closing in on Aaron Ramsdale, who can effectively replace Eddie Howe’s current number one.
Manchester United told Pope can succeed at Old Trafford
Pope helped Newcastle win the Carabao Cup last term, and also maintained eight clean sheets in 28 Premier League appearances.
According to talkSPORT [29 July], Pope could emerge as a target for Amorim’s side once Ramsdale completes his move to the North East.
Meanwhile, speaking live on talkSPORT on Wednesday, 30 July, Alan Brazil said: “I think he’ll do well at Man United, I like him.
“I’m pleased for Ramsdale as well, because he’s going as number two, but if he goes as number one, I’m pleased for him.”
Pope addition will seal Onana’s Old Trafford exit
Football Insider verdict
If Manchester United sign 10-cap England international Pope, he will displace Onana in Amorim’s starting lineup, rather than adding competition for the 29-year-old.
| Nick Pope stats | Premier League 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 28 |
| Saves | 88 |
| Clean sheets | 8 |
Meanwhile, having served as the Old Trafford outfit’s number one since arriving from Inter in 2023, the Cameroon international would likely prefer to leave the North West than be demoted to the substitute’s bench.
Contrastingly, Altay Bayindir has already served as Onana’s back-up and should have fewer qualms remaining as the number two behind Pope.
As alluded to by Brazil, Pope has the tools to succeed in Manchester United colours, having excelled in the Premier League for both Newcastle and his former club, Burnley.
While the Red Devils must strengthen in several areas, acquiring a proven top-flight goalkeeper is a priority, as Onana’s move to the North West has not been a success.
After landing a lowly Premier League finish last season, Amorim is already under pressure at Old Trafford and will need Pope to perform.