Newcastle United Respond to Manchester United’s Enquiry Over Nick Pope
Newcastle United have responded firmly to Manchester United’s growing interest in veteran goalkeeper Nick Pope, amid speculation the Red Devils are seeking stronger competition for current No. 1, Andre Onana. United’s interest comes on the back of a turbulent season for Onana and uncertainty over his fitness ahead of the new campaign.
The 29-year-old Cameroonian shot-stopper was signed for £43 million from Inter Milan in 2023, arriving at Old Trafford with high expectations following his standout performances in the Champions League. However, despite his impressive pedigree, Onana endured a frustrating debut season in English football. A string of high-profile mistakes, questionable decision-making, and lapses in concentration cost Manchester United crucial points across various competitions during their underwhelming 2024–25 campaign.
Towards the end of last season, Erik ten Hag and the club’s coaching staff began to lose confidence in Onana, leaving him out of the squad for several key fixtures. Now, concerns have escalated further after the goalkeeper picked up a hamstring injury during training, which has sidelined him for United’s pre-season tour in the United States. Although Onana travelled with the team for the three-game Premier League Summer Series, he is currently undergoing rehabilitation and is not expected to feature in any matches.
As a result, the United hierarchy has not ruled out reinforcing the goalkeeping department this summer. With backup options like Tom Heaton offering experience but limited long-term value, and youngster Radek Vitek still developing, the Red Devils have been scouring the market for a seasoned yet reliable option to either push or potentially replace Onana. According to talkSPORT, one of the names now under serious consideration is England international Nick Pope.
The 33-year-old Newcastle star has been one of the most consistent goalkeepers in the Premier League over the past decade. Since joining the Magpies from Burnley for £10 million in 2022, Pope has established himself as a commanding presence between the sticks, making nearly 100 appearances in all competitions. His shot-stopping ability, composure under pressure, and leadership have played a key role in Newcastle’s recent resurgence, including their Carabao Cup win and qualification for European football.
Despite his proven quality, Pope’s future at St James’ Park has come under question recently. He missed a large portion of last season—almost four months—due to injury, and Newcastle’s current transfer activity has only fueled speculation about a possible departure. The Magpies are reportedly in advanced talks to sign Aaron Ramsdale from Southampton following their relegation to the Championship, which has naturally raised eyebrows regarding Pope’s position in the squad, especially as he enters the final year of his contract.
Leeds United had previously made enquiries about signing Pope earlier this summer, but Newcastle rebuffed their approach. Leeds have since turned their attention elsewhere, securing Brazilian goalkeeper Lucas Perri from Lyon for approximately £15 million. Manchester United now appear to be testing Newcastle’s resolve, but according to Sky Sports, the Tyneside club has made its stance clear: Pope is not for sale.
Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s head coach, is keen to build a squad capable of competing on all fronts as the Magpies prepare for another European campaign. While Ramsdale’s arrival could happen in the coming weeks, Howe reportedly sees him as competition for Pope—not a replacement. Newcastle are planning to have both keepers challenge each other for the starting role, thereby raising standards across the board.
Sky Sports reporter James Savundra echoed this sentiment, explaining:
“Nick Pope has performed admirably for Newcastle over the past few seasons, but injuries have unfortunately disrupted his rhythm. Our understanding is that Eddie Howe is looking to bring in a goalkeeper to compete with Pope, not to replace him. That could lead to two England goalkeepers fighting for the No. 1 spot—knowing that whoever emerges as first choice could very well book a ticket to the World Cup next summer.”
This development sends a clear message to Manchester United: if they hope to prise Pope away from Newcastle, they’ll face strong resistance. The Magpies value Pope’s experience, leadership, and consistency too highly to offload him without a major rethink—especially without a clear successor already integrated.
Whether United decide to make a formal offer remains to be seen, but for now, it appears that Eddie Howe is planning his season with Nick Pope firmly in his plans.