Newcastle consider shock move for David de Gea, with Man United’s former goalkeeper an option to replace injured Nick Pope – who could be out for four months – if he’ll take a wage cut

Newcastle are considering their options, including a possible move for free agent David de Gea, as they await the results of scans on Nick Pope's shoulder injury.

Pope is facing a long-term layoff, with surgery currently considered the most likely course of action, amid an expected absence of around four months, after being forced off late in Newcastle's 1-0 win over Manchester United with a replay of the match. dislocated shoulder problem he suffered while playing for Burnley.

On the previous occasion, goalkeeper Pope did not play for more than five months between July 2018 and January 2019.

Newcastle are hoping his absence won't last as long this time and that he will be back before the end of the season, with the length of his spell on the sidelines and the severity of his injury becoming clearer after he visits specialists over the next 48 hours has visited. .

Still, his injury will be a major blow for Eddie Howe and Newcastle, with Pope a key part of their success since his arrival from Burnley in June 2022 for £10 million.

Newcastle are considering a possible move for former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea

First-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope suffered a shoulder injury against United this weekend

It will impact Pope's hopes of regaining his place in the England squad ahead of the Euros and could also force Newcastle into the transfer market to strengthen their goalkeeping department.

Mail Sport understands De Gea is a possible option Newcastle have been looking at. He left Manchester United in the summer after 12 years at Old Trafford but is yet to join a new club.

He would have obvious appeal given his pedigree, immediate availability and the fact he would not command a transfer fee.

Although during his last contract with Manchester United he earned £375,000 per week and would have to accept a lower salary to fit into their wage structure if Newcastle made a firm move for him.

Former Newcastle number 1 Martin Dubravka came on for Pope against Manchester United, where he had a short loan spell last season.

Dubravka helped Newcastle maintain their 1-0 lead and earned a deserved win against Erik Ten Hag's side.

Newcastle also have Loris Karius, who faced Manchester United in the Carabao Cup final last season, and Mark Gillespie in their ranks, although the latter has not played a competitive game since returning to the club in 2020.

Back-up goalkeeper Martin Dubravka was forced into action on Saturday after Pope's injury