SkySports: Newcastle United have Reportedly secured the services of goalkeeper Nick Pope
Newcastle United have secured the services of goalkeeper Nick Pope for an additional year, with the experienced shot-stopper triggering a contract extension that will keep him at St James’ Park until the summer of 2027.
Originally signed from Burnley in 2022 for a reported fee of £10 million, Pope’s initial deal was set to expire in June 2026. However, as reported by Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie, a clause in his contract has now been activated, automatically extending his stay by another year. This option appears to have been tied to team performance incentives, notably Newcastle’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League — a feat the club achieved last season for the first time in two decades.
Pope, 33, has been a vital figure for the Magpies under Eddie Howe, a manager known to be an admirer of the England international. His influence between the sticks has been undeniable, especially during the current season. He has already kept six clean sheets in nine appearances across all competitions — a testament to his consistency and command of the penalty area. His form continues to be a major reason why Newcastle remain one of the Premier League’s toughest sides to break down.
Last season, Pope was instrumental in Newcastle’s impressive campaign which saw them reach the Carabao Cup final and finish in the Premier League’s top four. He helped solidify the club’s defensive line, conceding just 33 goals in 38 league matches — the fewest of any team in the division. Over the course of his time at the club, Pope has now surpassed 100 appearances, quickly becoming a fan favourite on Tyneside.
Despite Pope’s commanding presence in goal, Newcastle were linked with several goalkeepers during the recent summer transfer window. Their top target was James Trafford, who ultimately ended up signing for Manchester City from Burnley. With that move falling through, the Magpies brought in Aaron Ramsdale on loan from Southampton, including an option to buy. However, Ramsdale has seen very limited game time so far this season, starting just once — in a Carabao Cup fixture — as Pope continues to be the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper.
The timing of Pope’s contract extension is significant for Newcastle, who are looking to maintain squad stability as they continue to compete both domestically and in Europe. While the club has not officially confirmed the extension, sources suggest it was triggered automatically and quietly behind the scenes as a result of performance-related clauses.
Looking ahead, Newcastle still have several contract situations to address. No fewer than ten players are currently set to see their contracts expire in 2026, including senior players Kieran Trippier and Fabian Schär. Trippier, a leader on and off the pitch, will turn 36 during the next campaign, while Schär will be 35 — prompting questions about their long-term futures at the club.
These decisions will fall under the remit of newly appointed sporting director Ross Wilson, who is expected to oversee a series of key negotiations in the coming months as Newcastle prepare for another competitive campaign.
For now, though, securing Pope’s presence through to 2027 will be viewed as a significant boost by both fans and the coaching staff, reinforcing the club’s ambitions to remain a force in English football.