Newcastle United ‘no comment’ after £25m transfer ‘very close’ & personal terms agreed claims
Nick Pope has firmly reestablished himself as Newcastle United’s first-choice goalkeeper during the season’s crucial closing stages.
After a hesitant return from injury earlier in the campaign—one that had some questioning whether Martin Dubravka might retain the starting spot—Pope has silenced his critics with a string of composed, commanding performances.
His resurgence has coincided with Newcastle’s continued rise up the Premier League table, with Champions League qualification now within touching distance.
Since helping secure the Carabao Cup at Wembley, Pope has not looked back, showcasing the kind of consistency and sharp reflexes that solidify his value to the team.
In Newcastle’s recent 2-0 win over Chelsea, Pope once again proved instrumental. Manager Eddie Howe praised his contributions, particularly two saves in the second half that preserved both the clean sheet and a vital three points.
One save against Marc Cucurella, in particular, stood out—an effort that demanded excellent positioning and lightning-fast reactions. Howe emphasized Pope’s physical attributes, noting his long reach and ability to make saves that few others could.
Beyond shot-stopping, Howe also lauded Pope’s aerial control, particularly on crosses and set pieces—qualities that will be essential as Newcastle prepare to face Arsenal at the Emirates and then close the season against Everton at St James’ Park.
Howe described Pope as one of the best shot-stoppers he has worked with, citing his sense of positioning, anticipation, and frame as key reasons for his recent success.
While he hasn’t been overly busy in recent matches, he’s delivered in the moments that have mattered most, stepping up when the defense has been tested. Those decisive interventions are exactly what top teams rely on from their keepers, and Pope has responded admirably.
Despite Pope’s strong form, speculation around Newcastle’s goalkeeping situation continues to intensify. The club has made no secret of its intention to reinforce the position this summer.
Last year, they pursued James Trafford from Burnley and even agreed on personal terms, but a deal collapsed when the clubs couldn’t settle on a transfer fee. Trafford, who has since delivered an outstanding season with 29 clean sheets, remains on Newcastle’s radar. However, his value has risen significantly, and any summer approach would likely exceed the £30 million mark.
Newcastle have also reportedly shown interest in Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel. The Swiss international impressed during Dortmund’s Champions League clash with Newcastle, and his reputation has only grown since.
Considered one of the most reliable goalkeepers in European football, Kobel would represent a marquee signing—albeit one that would command a substantial fee.
More recently, fresh reports out of Spain suggest Newcastle are closing in on another promising prospect: Joan Garcia of Espanyol. The 24-year-old Spaniard has attracted attention from elite clubs including Barcelona, Arsenal, and Aston Villa.
According to journalist Angel Garcia, Newcastle are prepared to trigger Garcia’s £25 million release clause, moving swiftly to secure a deal ahead of their competitors.
Garcia’s development has not gone unnoticed, and adding a goalkeeper of his profile would further signal Newcastle’s ambition to build depth and ensure long-term security in the position.
Still, amid the swirling rumors, Eddie Howe remains cautious and diplomatic. When asked about the transfer speculation, he declined to address individual names or reports, instead shifting the focus to the players already at his disposal.
Howe reaffirmed his confidence in the goalkeepers currently at the club and praised their collective efforts throughout the season. By choosing to deflect the attention away from speculation, he demonstrated his commitment to maintaining squad harmony and keeping the focus on the final matches of the season.
This approach underlines a delicate balance Newcastle must strike as they prepare for another leap forward.
While it’s clear they are laying the groundwork for strategic signings this summer, the importance of honoring the performances of current squad members like Pope cannot be overstated.
His impact in recent weeks has not only stabilized the defense but also reminded everyone why he remains a top-tier Premier League goalkeeper.
As Newcastle push for a Champions League finish, the spotlight remains on performances rather than possibilities. Yet behind the scenes, the groundwork is being laid.
With the summer transfer window fast approaching, the club appears poised to act decisively, even if the public line remains one of restraint. The goalkeeper debate may be ongoing, but for now, Nick Pope continues to prove why his name remains first on the team sheet.