Nick Pope emerges as shock target for Bayern Munich in Sky Germany report
Nick Pope has emerged as a surprise transfer target for Bayern Munich, with the German giants reportedly considering the Newcastle United goalkeeper as they look to strengthen their options between the sticks.
German legend Manuel Neuer is expected to retire next summer, with Jonas Urbig viewed as his long-term successor, but Bayern are also looking for an experienced goalkeeper who can provide reliable competition and cover.
Nick Pope on Bayern Munich’s radar?
Sky Germany reports that Newcastle’s 34-year-old goalkeeper is among the names being considered by Bayern, alongside a number of other experienced options from across Europe.
Pope is currently behind Lukas Hornicek and Ewen Jaouen in the pecking order at St James’ Park and, as things stand, his Newcastle contract expires in the summer of 2027.
It would certainly be a surprise destination for the former Burnley man, but Bayern appear to be exploring several options rather than having identified Pope as their clear first choice.
The report also highlights as Koen Casteels (Al-Qadsiah), Kevin Trapp (Paris FC), Frederik Rønnow (1. FC Union Berlin), Lukas Hradecky (AS Monaco), Juan Musso (Atlético Madrid) and Rui Silva (Sporting CP) as potential targets for Bayern.
Jaissle open to an exit that just makes sense
It feels like the natural point for Newcastle and Pope to part ways if the right opportunity arrives.
With Hornicek and Jaouen both younger options that we’ve spent over £40m on combined, plus Pope approaching the final months of his contract, a move next summer could make sense for all parties.
Jaissle has previously made it clear that the door is open to a move if the right solution can be found, while also stressing that any transfer would require agreement from the player and his representatives.
Speaking about Pope's situation last month, he said: “There are a couple of countries where there are still options that players can move to [where their transfer windows haven’t closed yet].
“I had a clear conversation with Nick a couple of weeks ago about his position here at the club and to make a move elsewhere, that is not only a club decision, it is also a decision of the players, Also the agent.
“There are many parts involved usually in deals and so we will see. But for now Nick is a member of the squad and I really appreciate him and what he did for the club already, how he is dealing with the situation right now.”
Of course, Newcastle need Jaouen to stay fit if they are going to move Pope on, and that is currently a concern with the Frenchman already suffering his third injury of the season last week.
Bayern would certainly be a shock destination, and Pope appears to be one of several back-up options on their radar, but a move to the Bundesliga giants would be some opportunity at this stage of his career.
