Newcastle United star holds Matthias Jaissle transfer talks as Celtic interest in ace emerges amid mega fee
Celtic could look to sign a goalkeeper in the transfer market this summer.
A Newcastle United star is reportedly attracting interest from Celtic as he looks to be edged firther out the picture at the Premier League side.
Goalkeeper Pope looks likely to be third choice at the Toon under new boss Matthias Jaissle. Lukas Hornicek has arrived from SC Braga last week and Ewen Jaouen’s arrival as at least number two leaves the Englishman’s position at the St James’ Park club vulnerable. Viljami Sinisalo and Ross Doohan are Celtic’s goalkeeper options but Kasper Schmeichel’s exit has left one senior shot-stopper spot void.
The Daily Mail state ‘goalkeeper Nick Pope has also been told he can leave and, while no offer has yet arrived, both Ipswich and Celtic are said to be monitoring his situation.’ It comes after head coach Jaissle held future talks with Pope following a 2-1 friendly win over Valencia.
What is Nick Pope’s position at Newcastle United?
Jaissle said to the Chronicle: "I had a talk with Nick. I really appreciate what he did in his career so far. He knows exactly the situation right now and we need to deal with it in the best possible way, but I always appreciate the player and the human being behind.
"Winning games always helps to gain confidence. We also knew that we had a hard week behind us. The players did well and there was a huge commitment to see in each session, so they really deserve two days off and then we start again."
An update from transfer journalist Pete O’Rourke on the situation adds that a big fee may be needed for Newcastle United to sell. It adds: “Nick Pope is unlikely to push to leave Newcastle United despite the arrival of two new goalkeepers. The 34-year-old is prepared to stay and fight for his place in the side at St James' Park following the arrival of new manager Matthias Jaissle.
“The England international is not prepared to move to a club where he would not be the first-choice keeper, and would prefer to remain at St James' Park if that is the case. Football Insider revealed in June that Newcastle could be prepared to sell Pope this summer, and would demand a fee upwards of £10million to let him go. However, his future will likely be decided by whether the goalkeeper is prepared to move on, with none of the interested clubs prepared to offer him the number one shirt.”