Newcastle United make Aaron Ramsdale decision as Nick Pope replacement shortlist drawn up

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Ahead of the summer, Manchester City’s James Trafford, Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen and Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel have been identified as potential replacements. The Athletic reports that all three goalkeepers have been tracked on a long-term basis, although it remains unclear who the favourite is.Bart VerbruggenPremier League 2025-26Appearances29Clean sheets6Goals conceded36Penalties saved1Save percentage 69%Ex-Everton chief executive Keith Wyness exclusively told Football Insider this week that Verbruggen could cost up to £50m to sign from Brighton this summer.The 23-year-old is rated highly in the Premier League, and could be the perfect goalkeeper to push Howe’s team forward.Pope’s poor ability on the ball has often forced Newcastle to consistently go long, but Verbruggen is among the very best goalkeepers with the ball at his feet.Similar praise can be given to Trafford and Kobel, yet the former may be signing that makes more sense than any other.

Pope’s mistake, parrying Dwight McNeil’s shot back towards goal and failing to get up in time to prevent Beto scoring, was made all the worse by Jordan Pickford’s wonder save in the dying moments.Howe will be well aware that a goalkeeper can be the difference, and his dropping of the 33-year-old spoke volumes.“Nick’s had moments where he’s not been selected before,” he said when asked about his decision. “He’s a high-class person.

“He’s part of our leadership group for a reason, because the lads see that he’s a team player fundamentally. He’s been excellent, I have to say.