Leeds United’s chances of securing Newcastle United transfer deal become clearer | OneFootball

Newcastle United's Nick Pope isn't keen on a move to Leeds United in the summer transfer window.

Nick Pope does not want to leave Newcastle United this summer, according to reports, amid interest from Leeds United.

The Whites are looking to strengthen their squad following promotion to the Premier League, and bringing in a new keeper is high on the list of priorities.

Illan Meslier endured a very difficult campaign despite Leeds’ promotion, with Daniel Farke dropping the Frenchman during the run-in after a series of mistakes.

Nick Pope would reject Leeds United switch if Newcastle United escape route is offered

So, it’s no surprise that Leeds have been linked with several keepers, and recent reports claim that Pope is on their radar.

Even though the England international has been a key figure for Eddie Howe over the years, it’s thought that Newcastle are in the market for a keeper themselves, with Burnley’s James Trafford their preferred option.

That would knock Pope to second choice, but Football Insider has revealed that the 33-year-old would still want to stay in the north-east.

They state Pope would reject the chance to join Leeds as he intends to fight for his place, whilst there could be game time in cup competitions for whoever is backup, with Newcastle in the Champions League next season.

Leeds United must target a quality number one this summer to succeed Illan Meslier

Pope would have been a brilliant addition for Leeds, as he is a proven, experienced Premier League keeper who can win points on his own.

The only target for Farke and the team is to stay up next season, so whilst it would be nice to sign young players with the future in mind, they need some who can make an instant impact and improve the XI.

There’s no denying that Pope does that, and in such a key position, it makes sense to take no risks.

Sadly, Meslier’s form means he can’t be trusted in the top-flight, and it’s fair to say that he wasn’t always impressive during Leeds’ last stint in the Premier League either.

Karl Darlow didn’t let anyone down during the final few games, but there will also be doubts about whether the Welsh international is good enough at that level as the main man, so it’s a position that must be addressed.