MASSIVE: The Transfer Ban Has Been SMASHED! Newcastle Now FREE to Grab the Goalkeeper That Could WIN THEM THE PREMIER LEAGUE – Howe is in LOVE!
Nick Pope Faces Backlash After Costly Mistake in Newcastle’s 3–2 Loss to Everton
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has declined to single out his goalkeeper amid renewed scrutiny of the club’s options between the posts.
The debate resurfaced after Nick Pope made a costly error in Saturday’s 3–2 Premier League defeat to Everton at St James’ Park.
Having just drawn level through Jacob Ramsey, Newcastle fell behind again within two minutes when Pope spilled Dwight McNeil’s effort, allowing Beto to convert from close range.
The mistake added to a series of high-profile errors this season, increasing questions over whether the Magpies will prioritise a new first-choice goalkeeper in the summer.
Asked directly if Pope had become a weakness and whether signing a keeper was now a top target, Howe refused to be drawn on individuals.
He stressed that defending is a collective responsibility, beginning with himself and extending across the team, rather than focusing on one position.
Newcastle’s long-standing interest in James Trafford has again come into focus. The club attempted to sign the 23-year-old in each of the last two transfer windows.
In 2024, a deal was close but collapsed due to Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules, prompting player sales instead.
Last summer, Newcastle returned with renewed intent, only for Manchester City to activate matching rights and complete a £27 million move.
Trafford, who previously spent eight years in City’s academy before a spell at Burnley, is reportedly unsettled after limited game time.
Expecting to compete as number one, he instead found himself behind Gianluigi Donnarumma, restricting him largely to domestic cup appearances.
The goalkeeper has publicly adopted a professional stance, insisting he will continue to work hard and take things day by day despite uncertainty over his long-term future.
Howe, meanwhile, has openly praised Trafford’s quality, describing himself as a big admirer.
With doubts lingering over Pope’s consistency and Trafford’s situation evolving, speculation persists over whether Newcastle will make a third attempt to secure his signature this summer.
