Ever since his return to the first team squad from injury, Nick Pope’s goalkeeping qualities have been called into question by many in the fan base.

Both games in which Pope started, the 4-3 win against Nottingham Forest and the 2-0 away loss to Liverpool, the England international’s performances left a lot to be desired, with some speculation on whether Pope has truly recovered and is confident to play on the shoulder he had surgery on.

Compare this with the confidence that Newcastle’s defence played with when Dubravka was between the sticks and it’s not hard to see why the Slovakian is pushing for the No.1 spot ahead of next Monday’s trip to West Ham and the cup final at Wembley a week on Sunday.

However, reports now suggest that Pope could be on the move this summer,

Pope’s future thrown into doubt

According to talkSPORT, Nick Pope’s Newcastle United future is in doubt following the anticipated arrival of James Trafford and a new deal for Martin Dubravka.

It’s also believed Pope is determined to play regularly at the top level and force his way back into the England squad following Thomas Tuchel’s arrival, adding to uncertainty on the player’s side.

With Trafford widely tipped to make the move to Tyneside this summer, and Dubravka only recently signing a contract extension, Pope may soon find himself relegated to third choice keeper in the squad.

Having built up strong Premier League and Champions League experience at the club, Pope would be a valuable asset to a number of sides, and could be a player worth cashing in on; especially if it aids our pursuit of Trafford.

TalkSPORT’s Alex Crook writes: ‘Newcastle are confident of finally signing the £30m rated Trafford this summer, although talk he has already agreed personal terms have been played down to talkSPORT.’

‘With Martin Dubravka signing a new contract and Newcastle still conscious of potential PSR issues, Trafford’s arrival could see them cash in on long-standing number one Pope.’

What are Pope’s options?

The same report states that Pope remains determined to play regularly in the Premier League, with hopes of returning to the England National Team under Thomas Tuchel one of his aims.

“Pope will also want to be playing regularly in the Premier League to enhance his chances of being included in England’s squad for next year’s World Cup.”

With Dubravka returning the starting XI in the recent FA Cup defeat against Brighton, it’s still unclear on if Pope will reclaim his No.1 spot in the league game against West Ham next Monday.

If Pope was to depart Newcastle in the search for first team football, is there perhaps a possibility he returns to Burnley?

It would make logical sense in regards to the Trafford transfer where both sides would benefit: Newcastle potentially being able to get a reduced fee, and Burnley getting a starting keeper back for their (likely) return to the Premier League next season.