The injury sustained by Nick Pope during Newcastle’s one-nil win against Manchester United may open the door for a David de Gea return to football, but only if the Spanish keeper “accepts a wage reduction”.
Nick Pope has been in the form of his life since signing for Newcastle two summers ago, and he has become a pivotal member of the squad. However, after being substituted with what appeared to be a shoulder injury in their recent game, it is thought that the Englishman may be sidelined for up to five months if surgery is necessary, which is likely the case according to Sky Sports.
With his major injury comes a chance that Newcastle may choose to delve into the transfer market in January, with De Gea’s name being mentioned. According to AS via the Daily Mail, “Newcastle are considering the possibility of signing De Gea to replace the injured Nick Pope.” Certainly, the 33-year-old is a serious option, but with certain conditions, “He has an obvious attraction given his pedigree, immediate availability, and the fact that he wouldn’t come with a transfer fee, but he would have to lower his wage demands to fit into the wage structure at Newcastle.”
After 12 years in Manchester, the former Spain international has not played in six months after the club and player were unable to come to an agreement and extend his contract.
It is also a possibility that Newcastle choose to put their faith in back-up goalkeepers Martin Dubravka and Loris Karius to see out the season.
GSFN | Finn Entwistle