Veteran goalie Nick Pope has been backed as a possible signing for Ipswich Town as it is increasingly looking like his days at Newcastle United are numbered.
The 34-year-old remains on Newcastle’s roster, but his situation has come under scrutiny after a stop-start season that included a groin injury, low-level performances, and Aaron Ramsdale’s temporary spell at St James’ Park, forcing him out of the XI entirely.
That said, Pope still made 36 appearances in all competitions last season, keeping 11
clean sheets and conceding 46 goals, missing out on making England’s World Cup squad.
Newcastle have already signed 20-year-old Ewen Jaouen from Reims, and although he is not expected to become the first choice immediately, there is a solid chance he can usurp Pope’s role if both are the 1A and 1B goalies come September.
With the Magpies having already renewed their interest in Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, however, it’s crystal clear that Pope’s virtually gone.
talkSPORT reported that Ipswich have been linked with Pope after returning to the Premier League and looking to strengthen in goal.
On talkSPORT Breakfast, Gabby Agbonlahor backed the possible move during the station’s Transfer Tinder segment.
“I like that move,” Agbonlahor said. “He’s just not good enough with his feet and the way big teams want to play.”
Andy Goldstein also praised Pope’s traditional goalkeeping qualities.
“He’s a good goalkeeper,” Goldstein said. “He’s a big, big goalkeeper, a good presence, I like him a lot.”
Pope has spent four years at Newcastle, but the club’s rebuild will push him toward an exit as soon—and even if not—as another senior option arrives.
Ipswich, Leeds and Hull have all been linked as potential destinations this summer, with Leeds seemingly leading the race to land him.
