Nick Pope was confirmed as Newcastle’s second summer signing on Thursday, penning a four-year deal on Tyneside – prompting Shay Given and Mehrdad Ghodoussi to react to the England star’s arrival.
Pope, 29, has opted to leave Burnley after six years at Turf Moor – after the club were relegated into the Championship. He played 155 times for the club, limited only by injury and the early form of Tom Heaton.
Now, the England man moves to Newcastle and is expected to be the club’s instant no.1 goalkeeper – ahead of Martin Dubravka. He is Newcastle’s second signing, after the Toon announced the permanent signing of Matty Targett.
Pope took to Instagram to thank Burnley for his six years at the club and pay an emotional tribute to the club’s fans – also recalling his old side’s run into Europe. He also thanked the staff he worked alongside at Burnley.
Given and Ghodoussi react as Pope confirmed as Newcastle signing
It is a brilliant bit of business from the Toon. Pope has cost in the region of £10million and given his form last season, that is a sensational signing for Eddie Howe’s side. A good start from Dan Ashworth.
But there is a long way to go. Newcastle need a centre-back, a holding midfielder, a right-winger, a no.10 and perhaps another striker. Talks are ongoing for Lille’s Sven Botman and Reims starlet Hugo Ekitike.
The signing of Pope, though, dramatically improves Howe’s options between the sticks and both Given and Ghodoussi were among those to react on social media – as did Warren Barton.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
