Leeds United faced with Nick Pope decision as Newcastle deal edges closer
Leeds United could make a move to sign Nick Pope from Newcastle this summer.
The Whites have a lot of work to do this summer if they are to improve on the campaign they have just had, with recruitment set to play a big role.
Adding more quality in the forward areas will be one of two main priorities for Leeds, while the other will be to add a new goalkeeper to their squad.
Lucas Perri had a debut campaign to forget, and while Karl Darlow fared reasonably well when he was utilised, an improvement is still needed as a matter of urgency if progression is to be achieved.
Leeds have been linked with Pope in the past, and as per the latest reports from Newcastle, they may have a chance to get their hands on the goalkeeper this summer.
Leeds handed food for thought as Newcastle close in on transfer
Like Leeds, Newcastle have also been on the lookout for a new number one, and as per the latest reports from abroad, they may have found one.
French goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen is closing in on a move to the North East after the Magpies agreed a £24million deal with Reims.
As of now, it's unknown if he will be their new number one, though it will certainly raise questions about Pope's future either way, especially given that he has just one year left on his contract.
Leeds have been linked with several goalkeepers already ahead of the summer, including Lukas Hornicek, though the chance to sign a proven, Premier League-experienced goalkeeper could sway them.
Would Pope be a good addition for Leeds?
The Whites need someone to keep the ball out of the net and command his penalty area.
And Pope is a decent bet to address both of those areas.
He saved 70.1 per cent of the shots he faced in the Premier League last season, while also recording 35 high claims.
For the latter, he ranked among the top 17.9 per cent of goalkeepers in the top flight.
Leeds may well be able to do better, though it would be far from a bad deal if it were to happen, financial cost dependent.