Newcastle United have reportedly set sights on Nick Pope as Eddie Howe looks to add competition to the goalkeeping department.
According to talkSPORT, Newcastle United are keen on signing Nick Pope, as the Magpies eye the 30-year-old English international to add to the quality of their existing goalkeepers. The Burnley veteran could be available for a reported £10 million, making him a sensational, cost-effective option for Eddie Howe.
Newcastle United may have wealthy owners, but the club and its board are cautiously treading through a tricky transfer market. While many expect the Magpies to pay whatever price is demanded, they will ensure that money is spent well and prudently.
In the January transfer window, they were expected to splash the cash. But Newcastle used their funds rather smartly to get Eddie Howe the players he needed. The Tyneside outfit are set to take a similar approach in this window as plenty of areas in the squad need reinforcements.
Bringing in a new goalkeeper is considered essential by Howe as he gears up for a challenging season ahead. So far, the Magpies have failed to convince clubs of their preferred targets, as the problem of price hinges on potential deals.
For instance, Newcastle wanted Robert Sanchez, but Brighton & Hove Albion have set a huge asking price for the Spaniard. Hence, Howe and director of football Dan Ashworth are forced to look at alternatives such as Nick Pope. The 30-year-old is eager to return to the Premier League after Burley’s relegation to the EFL Championship.
Previous reports stated Burnley might demand close to £40 million for the English goalkeeper. However, talkSPORT claim that he is available for £10 million, which negates the old stories surrounding Pope’s price tag, which would also please Newcastle in their efforts to sign him.
Meanwhile, they were also interested in Gavin Bazunu from Manchester City and Alphonse Areola from Paris Saint-Germain. But Newcastle showed reluctance to pay the asking price. The Irish star is set to join Southampton, while Areola could move to West Ham United permanently, which leaves the Magpies with Pope.
The English international could be a solid addition to the Newcastle United first-team setup as Howe looks to add competition for places in the squad. The question remains whether Pope will cost only £10 million, especially considering he only has one year remaining with Burnley.