Credit: Imago

Jack Dawson

Sun 31 May 2026 7:30, UK

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Newcastle United are in need of a series of upgrades after their disappointing 2025-26 campaign.

One position that is in dire need of reinforcements is in goal, with Nick Pope proving to be unreliable numerous times this season.

The Magpies have been linked to numerous potential replacements, including James Trafford, who has struggled since signing for Manchester City.

However, Eddie Howe should instead target Moritz Nicolas, who has had another impressive season at Borussia Monchengladbach.

The 28-year-old is on the target for around £13million, which could help Newcastle secure a summer bargain.

Moritz Nicolas is an upgrade on Nick Pope

According to Sky Sports Germany on 29 May, Nicolas has a release clause in his contract that can be activated by clubs in Europe’s top five leagues.

For the Premier League, this is set at £13m, a potential bargain for any side looking to activate it.

This campaign, Nicolas kept 13 clean sheets in the Bundesliga, while also boasting a 72 per cent save rate.

This eventually helped his club to finish in a comfortable 12^th place.

Stats-wise, he is far better than Pope in multiple areas, and therefore, Newcastle must make an approach.

Nicolas could finally end the Magpies’ goalkeeping issues, while allowing the club more room to spend on other areas.

What are Newcastle’s transfer plans this summer?

Former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson has exclusively told Football Insider that Newcastle must splash the cash this summer to avoid missing out on Champions League football again.

The lack of European football is set to be a crushing blow to the Magpies finances as they look to establish themselves as one of the top sides in England.

Anthony Gordon has signed for La Liga champions Barcelona for a significant undisclosed fee.

Thank you for everything, @anthonygordon. Wishing you all the very best for the future 🫶 pic.twitter.com/OtqXcA9ryW

— Newcastle United (@NUFC) May 29, 2026

However, Newcastle have just pocketed close to £70m from Anthony Gordon’s move to Barcelona in recent days.

Now, Borson believes that these funds can help Newcastle complete their transfer dealings early in what could be an exciting summer window.

However, it remains to be seen who the Magpies look to bring in as they aim to put their disappointing 2025-26 campaign behind them.