Goalkeeper Nick Pope enters Manchester United’s radar for next season
Experienced England international could arrive at Old Trafford as competition for Onana
Manchester United are monitoring Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope as a potential signing ahead of the new season, amid growing uncertainty surrounding the future of both clubs’ goalkeeping departments.
Sources close to the situation say Pope, 33, could be made available by Newcastle following reports of interest in Aaron Ramsdale. The Southampton keeper, who also has ten caps for England, is being linked with a move to St James’ Park, raising questions over Pope’s role going forward.
Newcastle’s initial plan had involved signing Burnley’s James Trafford, but that move collapsed when Manchester City activated their buy-back clause and re-signed the 22-year-old for approximately €31.6 million (£27 million).
With Ramsdale potentially arriving to fill the gap, Pope may fall down the pecking order despite his strong performances since joining the Magpies. A departure could be mutually beneficial, especially with Newcastle keen to balance their squad and wage structure.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are assessing options following André Onana’s inconsistent displays last season. Though Onana is expected to remain first-choice at the start of the campaign, club sources suggest United are open to bringing in an experienced goalkeeper to provide competition.
Pope, whose contract with Newcastle expires next summer, presents a financially sensible and Premier League-proven option. His potential arrival could bring both stability and depth to a position that has seen uncertainty, with backup keeper Altay Bayindir failing to impress during limited opportunities.
Despite Pope’s age, his top-flight experience and international credentials make him an attractive target for a United side eager to reinforce key areas ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
