Newcastle's search for a goalkeeper amid a shattering summer is reaching its conclusion. According to The Athletic's David Ornstein, Newcastle United are close to signing Braga goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek by paying his €30 million (around £25.7 million) release clause.
The state of the deal has also become clear. According to Ornstein, the Magpies are very close to completing the transfer; the club is reported to currently be discussing payment terms with the Portuguese side, with the formal details of the deal now close to being finalised.
The player's performances also explain this interest. Czech Republic international Hornicek, who broke through at Braga after initially joining on loan in 2019, is recalled to have kept 24 clean sheets in 55 appearances across all competitions last season, with seven shut-outs in 14 Europa League outings; he is reported to have carried that form into the new season, delivering another impressive display in the 1-0 win over Zeleznicar Pancevo in the Conference League qualifiers.
This transfer is part of the club's goalkeeping overhaul. Newcastle are recalled to have turned to alternatives after their target James Trafford moved towards Hull City, with Nick Pope out of favour and Aaron Ramsdale returning to Southampton following the expiry of his loan.
Other squad moves also complete this picture. Newcastle are reported to have already signed Ewen Jaouen for £18 million this summer, though the young goalkeeper is viewed as one for the future, with Hornicek's arrival potentially paving the way for long-serving Nick Pope's exit.
The competition and managerial context has also become clear. Portuguese giants Benfica and Hull City are recalled to have also shown interest in the player — Hull having even activated the release clause earlier, though the player was not keen on that move; the transfer is emphasised as set to be the first signing for manager Matthias Jaissle, who took over following Eddie Howe's abrupt departure.
Source: The Athletic
Image: Chronicle Live
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