Nick Pope in advanced talks to return to Premier League
Newcastle hope to wrap up a deal for England goalkeeper Nick Pope this week after agreeing a fee with Burnley.
The two clubs have been in talks over a deal worth in the region of £12m and have now reached a compromise.
Pope is due to arrive in the North East in the next 48 hours later to finalise a move that will see him become Eddie Howe’s second signing of the summer after Matt Targett’s permanent arrival from Aston Villa.
Manager Howe has been keen to bring in a goalkeeper and considered Nottingham Forest-bound Dean Henderson and Alphonse Areola – on the verge of joining West Ham permanently – among others.
Pope, though, has emerged as his preferred choice and Howe is now on the verge of getting his man.
Despite their relegation Pope is one of the Clarets players who finished the season with his reputation intact.
He has been one of Burnley’s most standout performers during their six-year Premier League, occupying their No.1 position during four of their top-flight campaigns and winning their player of the year award twice.
He was also part of England’s 2018 World Cup squad, would have gone to Euro 2020 had he not been injured and his form last season helping him regain a place in Gareth Southgate’s plans.
And Pope has boosted his chances of challenging Jordan Pickford and Aaron Ramsdale ahead of the World Cup in November by securing a move that will see him remain in the top flight.
The breakthrough in talks to sign Pope will be a boost for Howe as Newcastle hope for similar in their attempts to land defender Sven Botman and striker Hugo Etikite from French sides Lille and Reims respectively.
