Aaron Ramsdale to Newcastle makes a lot of sense, but the Arsenal star's arrival would be bad news for Nick Pope
Newcastle have been told that signing the Arsenal goalkeeper makes “a lot of sense”.
But talkSPORT co-hosts Ally McCoist and Jeff Stelling believe his arrival at St James' Park would see their England international Nick Pope depart.
He gunners The goalkeeper has previously been admired by the Magpies and is now being linked with a possible move to the North East once again due to a lack of game time at the Emirates.
According to the daily mailNewcastle have rekindled their interest in Ramsdale, with Eddie Howe still a big admirer of him after signing him from Bournemouth.
The 25-year-old wants to play normally again after becoming Arsenal's number 2 following the arrival of Brentford borrower David Rayá last summer.
The Geordies already have two star goalkeepers Martin Dubravka and Dadbut as the couple are 35 and 31 years old respectively, the club is looking for a younger option in goal.
Asked if the move would be good for all parties, talkSPORT breakfast co-host Ally McCoist He said: “Yes, although there will be a bit of healthy competition once Nick Pope gets back to fitness.
“I think, to be fair, Dubravka has come in and done a reasonable job, but I think Pope will automatically come back once he's fit.
“He's (almost) 32. Goalkeepers can play a lot longer than maybe outfield players, it would certainly make a lot of sense for Ramsdale.”
Jeff Stelling He agreed with McCoist but said Newcastle would also face a big decision if they decide to bring in Ramsdale.
He commented: “It makes a lot of sense for Newcastle, but it means Nick Pope leaves the club. He doesn't stay as number two.
“They will keep Dubravka as number 2 and sell Nick Pope, and I don't think there will be a lack of takers because he is a good goalkeeper.”
“Well, that's the thing,” McCoist added. “I think Newcastle have to weigh up, do they think Ramsdale is a better goalkeeper than Nick Pope?
“Because I think Jeff is right, Pope is not going to be slacking off and playing second fiddle at 32 years old, a great decision.”
Since signing following Burnley's relegation in 2022, Pope, who still has two years left on his current contract, has made 62 appearances in all competitions for Newcastle.
Meanwhile, Ramsdale, who has been limited to just six Premier League games this season, had been Arsenal's number one before falling down Mikel Arteta's pecking order.
His contract also expires in 2026.