The two goalkeepers Newcastle United have discussed signing could have major and more immediate implications on Nick Pope.
Newcastle United’s pursuit of a new goalkeeper during the summer transfer window was well-documented.
Indeed, Newcastle tried to sign James Trafford but lost out to Manchester City.
While the Magpies eventually moved for Aaron Ramsdale, that seemed like a stop-gap signing more than anything.
Would you rather Newcastle sign a ready-made No.1 or a young project player?
This is assuming that Nick Pope retains his starting berth and Aaron Ramsdale isn’t signed permanently…
The pursuit of Trafford suggested that Newcastle were chasing a younger option to come in and compete with Pope before eventually replacing him.
However, with a move for Trafford now unlikely, Newcastle appear to be thinking about a more experienced stopper.
Newcastle United have talked about signing Alex Remiro and Gregor Kobel
That’s because, according to The Daily Mail, Newcastle have discussed potentially moving for Alex Remiro and Gregor Kobel of Real Sociedad and Borussia Dortmund respectively.
Though a January move for a goalkeeper is considered unlikely, it’s a situation that could be addressed this summer.
As such, it would be reasonable to expect Pope to continue as the club’s No.1 until the end of the season now he is fit again.
Interestingly, Remiro is 30 and Kobel is 28. Both have played for their national teams (Spain and Switzerland), too.
With that in mind, perhaps this summer could see Newcastle bring a player in who can instantly take over from Pope, rather than someone like Trafford who can develop over a few months.
Why Newcastle United won’t sign a new goalkeeper in January
Pope has been criticised by Newcastle fans this season, following some high-profile mistakes.
Clearly, the 33-year-old isn’t perfect. There are concerns about his decision-making at times, as well as his distribution.
However, the situation perhaps isn’t quite as pressing as other positions are during the January transfer window.
You can sign ONE defender in January, who are you taking? ✍️
This season, Pope has amassed the fourth-highest save percentage in the Premier League (74.1%).
He also boasts the fifth-highest clean sheet percentage (38.5%).
Though the criticism has been fair at times, it’s not as if he’s suddenly being beaten from all angles.
Pope divides opinion among the fanbase but there are other areas of the squad that require greater attention.
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