Newcastle could have a ‘free run’ for a £40m star despite interest from West Ham

The Chronicle Claim Newcastle could have “free rein” in signing Burnley goalkeeper Nick Pope – despite interest from West Ham, Southampton and Nottingham Forest. Pope is valued at £40m by the Clarets.

Pope, 30, is one of several key Burnley players expected to leave Vincent Kompany’s side this summer. The eight-time England international will want to maintain his place in the Three Lions squad and relegation won’t help.

Among many other outlets, the Chronicle says Newcastle, West Ham, Southampton and Forest all want the ex-Charlton stopper. However, the report outlines why the toon could now have a “free run” at the colossal keeper.

That’s because Forest is closing in on Manchester United’s Dean Henderson. Southampton have signed Gavin Bazunu from Manchester City and West Ham are keen to secure a permanent deal for Alphonse Areola.

Newcastle could have ‘free rein’ despite the huge interest in pop

It makes sense. Of the four clubs interested, Forest is unlikely to back Pope if they get a deal across the line for Henderson – talks are ongoing. Southampton have signed Bazunu and still have Alex McCarthy.

West Ham have Lukasz Fabianski for another season, while Areola – despite interest from Newcastle – are likely to stay on permanently. Where could Pope reasonably go other than moving to Tyneside?

It would reunite him with Chris Wood. Whether Newcastle can renegotiate their £40m price tag remains to be seen. It’s a bit excessive given the relegation and he has one year left on his contract. £25m might be fairer.

In other news, Report: Newcastle and West Ham target tells his team-mates he is leaving the club for free