Newcastle United told to sign ‘£20m’ Dean Henderson alternative after latest twist – pundit
Noel Whelan has told Newcastle United to scrap a potential deal for Dean Henderson and sign Nick Pope after Burnley’s relegation.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted Pope, 30, should be the “first port of call” for the cash-rich Magpies this summer.
According to the Manchester Evening News (17 May), Newcastle are considering a move for Henderson as they look to enhance their squad ahead of next season – with the former Sheffield United loan star reportedly “desperate” to exit Man United.
He made just three appearances all season and failed to take part in the Premier League.
Pope and Burnley were relegated from the Premier League on Sunday (22 May).
The England international had turned in a string of impressive performances in recent weeks.
Whelan insisted the 30-year-old is “more proven” than Henderson and urged Newcastle to enquire about his services.
He told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge: “If you’re going to spend £20million on Dean Henderson, you’d rather go out and get Nick Pope, wouldn’t you?
“Look at some of the saves he’s made. For me, he’d be the first port of call if I’m Newcastle United.
“He’s the one who is Burnley’s main player. He gave them a fighting chance with some of his performances just like Jordan Pickford.
“They’ve got to enquire about him. He’s a lot more proven and tried and tested in the Premier League when you compare him with Henderson, too.”
Martin Dubravka is Newcastle’s current number one and is under contract at St James’ Park until June 2025.
The Magpies finished 11th in the Premier League after staving off the threat of relegation.
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