Whether Newcastle United want to replace Nick Pope after James Trafford signing claim

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Nick Pope is Newcastle United’s first choice goalkeeper, but it remains to be seen for how long.

The England international regained his place in the Newcastle United starting XI on Sunday, as the Magpies beat Nottingham Forest 4-3 at St James’ Park.

Newcastle fans questioned Nick Pope’s inclusion, as he replaced Martin Dubravka in between the sticks. The Slovakian had been playing well, but it has always been well known that Nick Pope is Eddie Howe’s first choice.

But that could potentially change soon, amid claims that Newcastle are going to sign James Trafford from Burnley when the summer transfer window opens.

Newcastle United’s goalkeeper plan

Trafford was heavily linked with Newcastle last summer, and it has been suggested that the Magpies are going to reignite their interest at the end of the season.

But would Trafford arrive as an understudy to Pope, or would he immediately become Newcastle United’s first choice goalkeeper?

According to the Athletic’s Chris Waugh, any senior goalkeeper who Newcastle sign will arrive to challenge Pope for a place in the starting lineup.

Newcastle fans feared Pope could be sold after the Trafford rumours, but that might not be the case.

Interestingly, the Athletic add that suggestions of a deal being agreed for Trafford are ‘premature’.

Newcastle United must keep Nick Pope

The goalkeeping situation at St James’ Park is very strange. In truth, it has become a bit of a mess.

It must be addressed this summer, which is why talk of Trafford arriving is exciting. He continues to shine for Burnley, while he has the potential to get so much better at the age of 22-years-old.

Trafford has the talent to develop into a Newcastle United and England number one, but he is not at that level just yet. That is why the Magpies must keep Nick Pope.

If Newcastle plan to sign a goalkeeper like Trafford, be it the man himself or someone similar, then they need someone experienced and reliable who they can learn from. Pope can be exactly that.

The only way that Pope should leave Newcastle United is if another goalkeeper arrives who is undeniably better than him. Trafford might be able to become that, but he is not there just yet.