It could be a summer of change at Newcastle United, but Eddie Howe has confirmed that one of his players is not seeking a move away.
There are relentless rumours about Bruno Guimaraes leaving the club, but Newcastle United are planning to keep him at St James’ Park – unless someone activates his release clause. The club are also standing firm on Alexander Isak, despite Arsenal wanting to bring him to the Emirates.
But there are players who Newcastle are looking to sell. Miguel Almiron is likely to see his Toon career come to an end, and it feels like the same will go for Callum Wilson. Replacements are being discussed, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin a target.
There is also a situation brewing with Newcastle’s goalkeeping department, with the club interested in signing either Aaron Ramsdale or Giorgi Mamardashvili. Either would challenge Nick Pope for a place in the starting XI, leading to a claim that the former Burnley man is unsettled at St James’ Park and is going to seek a move away.
Eddie Howe defiant over Nick Pope’s future
However, that story has been played down by Eddie Howe, who has spoke to the Chronicle out in Australia about how important Pope is to the club.
He was asked if Pope still has a big role to play at Newcastle United, and was defiant in his answer.
“Yeah absolutely,” he said.
“That (he is unsettled) has not come from anyone connected with the football club, I can assure you of that.
“Nick is a vital part of what we are doing.”
Pressure will be on Nick Pope if a new goalkeeper arrives at Newcastle
It feels all but certain that Newcastle are going to sign a goalkeeper this summer. And based on the rumours, it looks like they want someone to challenge Pope rather than act as backup.
That will put pressure on Pope, who has not had much of a fight to be Newcastle’s number one ever since his arrival on Tyneside. Howe immediately put his faith in Pope, and it became clear very quickly that he had made the correct decision.
But his position will be under threat if Ramsdale or Mamardashvili join. Either player will cost decent money, and have age on their side compared to Pope. They are both much younger than the 32-year-old, and will be viewed as Newcastle’s long-term number one.
However, that does not mean Pope will immediately become a backup. The starting position is his to lose, and Howe has made it clear that the England international is going to be a vital member of the Newcastle United squad.
While there are plenty of rumoured outgoings at Newcastle right now, Howe is certain that there should not be any involving Pope.
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