“Leeds United’s SHOCKING Bundesliga Raid: Desperate Hunt for Nick Pope’s Replacement Will Leave You Speechless!”

Leeds United have long held interest in Nick Pope, with the 49ers identifying him as a prime target. However, prising him away from Newcastle United was always going to be a challenging task.

There had been renewed optimism this summer, with Pope entering the final year of his contract at St James’ Park.

Leeds fans hoped this would open the door for a potential deal, especially as James Trafford nears a move to Tyneside, potentially paving the way for Pope’s exit.

Despite the speculation, that move now appears off the table. According to The Athletic’s Beren Cross, Newcastle have no intention of selling Pope, and the goalkeeper is reportedly happy to stay on as a backup for the 2024/25 campaign.

With Pope no longer a viable option, Leeds have turned their attention elsewhere. Following the arrivals of Sebastiaan Bornauw and Lukas Nmecha from the Bundesliga, the club is again scouting Germany’s top flight.

Anton Stach is on their radar, and goalkeeper Robin Zentner has emerged as a serious alternative to Pope.

Zentner was recently highlighted as a suitable candidate from both domestic and major European leagues.

Last season, the Mainz shot-stopper boasted the fourth-highest save percentage in the Bundesliga at 71.3%, according to FotMob. He also ranked fourth in “goals prevented,” outperforming his expected goals (xG) tally by five.

The Athletic now confirms Leeds are actively pursuing Zentner, alongside Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri.

Zentner, 30, has been Mainz’s first-choice since the 2019/20 season and is contracted until 2028. His reliability is a key asset, having featured in 174 of the club’s last 192 league matches.

Mainz’s sixth-place finish last term also secured a spot in next season’s UEFA Conference League.

Meanwhile, another name linked with Leeds is Vanja Milinkovic-Savic of Torino. Cross has addressed the rumours, confirming that while the Whites are keen, they’re not alone.

Leeds would welcome him without hesitation, but it’s widely expected he’ll join a club playing Champions League football instead.

Securing a consistent and dependable number one remains a priority for Leeds this summer, and the club is actively exploring multiple avenues.