Sources: Ipswich Town register interest in Nick Pope with Newcastle ready to accept offer

Ipswich Town have registered their interest in Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope, sources have told Football Insider.

The Tractor Boys are keen to sign a new number one this summer after their promotion to the Premier League, with the 34-year-old seen as a strong option.

Sources close to the deal expect Newcastle's asking price to be a "stumbling block" in any potential negotiations, however.

Pope has just one year remaining on his contract at St James' Park, and Eddie Howe's team are willing to sell him this summer.

The Magpies have already signed Ewen Jaouen from Stade de Reims this summer, and are also considering a move for James Trafford.

Pope was born in Soham, not far from Ipswich, and spent time in the Tractor Boys' academy before leaving in 2008.

Ipswich Town consider Nick Pope deal

Alex Palmer joined Ipswich midway through the 2024-25 season and was their first-choice goalkeeper for their final 13 Premier League games.

The 29-year-old started this season between the sticks, too, but lost his position in October after suffering a calf injury.

Christian Walton stepped in and kept his place for the remainder of the campaign, keeping 16 clean sheets in 37 Championship games.

The former Brighton goalkeeper has only ever made seven appearances in the top flight, however, and could be replaced before the opening day.

Pope has emerged as a target for several sides this summer amid his likely exit from Newcastle.

The veteran shot-stopper joined the Magpies from Burnley in 2022 and has made 131 appearances since, establishing himself among the Premier League's finest goalkeepers.

Repetitive injuries and mistakes have creeped into Pope's game in the last couple of years, but Ipswich will be gaining incredible experience if they can complete a move for him.

Pope did not rule out Ipswich move in 2021

Pope began his career at Ipswich, and the goalkeeper has since revealed that he still supports his boyhood club.

The 34-year-old told students in 2021 that he still follows the results, and could not rule out a return.

"It’s impossible to say but I’d never rule it out - I still follow the club and the results. I always have an eye on them," he said.

Pope may well be set to see that prospect become a reality this summer, in what could be his last dance in the Premier League.