Leeds Expected to Seek Newcastle Keeper Nick Pope After Trafford Bid

Leeds United are targeting Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope in the upcoming summer transfer window as they seek to strengthen their squad following promotion to the Premier League. Pope could become available if Newcastle complete their pursuit of Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, whose £30 million transfer is expected to finalize soon, which would potentially open the door for Leeds to sign Pope as an upgrade on current No. 1 Illan Meslier. Leeds had also pursued Liverpool's Caoimhin Kelleher, who is instead joining Brentford for an initial £12.5 million, possibly rising to £18 million. Pope, a 33-year-old England international, has been Newcastle's first-choice goalkeeper since 2022, contributing significantly to their Carabao Cup win and Champions League qualification, but Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has reportedly wanted to sign a new number one for over a year. Leeds' interest in Pope is also driven by Meslier's errors in goal, prompting the club to seek a more reliable option between the sticks. Additionally, Newcastle are exploring defensive reinforcements separately, including interest in young centre backs such as Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, while Leeds focus on shoring up their spine with key signings like Pope.