Newcastle United goalkeeper Nick Pope has reportedly been told he can leave the club this summer, with both Ipswich Town and Celtic keen on signing the 34-year-old.
Pope has been a significant presence since his move to the club from Burnley, though his form has been inconsistent in recent campaigns. The England international was instrumental in Newcastle's transformation from relegation battlers to Champions League contenders, but questions have been raised over his distribution, struggling in the black and white shirt last season.
New signings push Pope down pecking order
The Magpies have brought in two new goalkeepers this summer, with Ewen Jaouen and Lukas Hornicek arriving for a combined reported fee in the region of £45m.
Pope has been the subject of transfer speculation away from St James' Park over the past 12 months, with Leeds United also previously showing interest in the shot stopper. However, the Whites have secured Man City goalkeeper James Trafford in an ambitious piece of business, shutting down one potential destination.
Celtic and Ipswich show interest
According to the Daily Mail, Celtic are considering a move for Pope this summer, with Martin O'Neil planning further reinforcements to strengthen their chances of Champions League qualification. Ipswich Town are also being touted as potential suitors for Pope, as they seek to bolster their squad and stave off relegation from the Premier League.
The speculation comes after the England international held talks with new Magpies boss Matthias Jaissle, who has hinted that Pope can leave St James' Park.
Jaissle confirms talks
Pope joined the Newcastle squad during their warm-weather training camp in La Manga, but was omitted from the side that beat Valencia 2-1 at the Mestalla at the weekend.
Shedding light on his discussion with Pope, Jaissle said: "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."
The goalkeeper has made 131 appearances for Newcastle since making the switch from Burnley in 2022, playing his part in the Magpies' Carabao Cup triumph and their Champions League qualification.
