Burnley are fighting to keep goalkeeper Nick Pope.
According to The Sun, Burnley are set to open talks over a new contract for goalkeeper Nick Pope, in an attempt to fight off interest from Newcastle United.
The Clarets started the season with mainstay Tom Heaton between the sticks, but an injury forced Pope into action – and the former Charlton Athletic youngster hasn’t let Sean Dyche down.
Pope, 25, has turned in a host of outstanding displays this season, helping Burnley keep an impressive defensive record whilst leaving Burnley fans feeling that Heaton hasn’t been missed.
Pope has now been called up to the England squad by Gareth Southgate, and it’s claimed that Burnley want to double Pope’s £15,000-a-week wages in order to fend off interest in his signature.
Newcastle interested
The report states that Newcastle United are leading the chase for Pope, with Rafael Benitez seemingly still open to goalkeeping changes even after bringing in Martin Dubravka in January.
Dubravka has impressed since joining on loan from Sparta Prague, but the Magpies could yet turn away from a permanent deal and look towards Pope this summer.
Pope is in a fascinating situation given that Heaton is coming back to fitness, and he may well be demoted to second choice at Turf Moor, which could force him to look elsewhere.
An England call-up has proven Pope’s quality, and he won’t be keen on a substitute role next season, with Newcastle potentially hoping to take full advantage this summer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
