Newcastle United officially announced the signing of Czech goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Portuguese side Braga on Monday. The 24-year-old has agreed to a five-year deal after the Magpies activated his 30-million-euro (£25.7 million, $34.6 million) release clause, marking him as the club’s fifth signing of the summer.
“The last few days have been an emotional rollercoaster from when I first heard about the move and now I’m so happy to be here,” said the 24-year-old, who is expected to supplant Nick Pope as first-choice goalkeeper. He added, “I know Newcastle is a huge football city, with 52,000 fans at St James’ Park creating an incredible atmosphere and pushing the team every game. I can’t wait to play in front of them.”
Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson welcomed the arrival, stating that Hornicek has “firmly established himself as one of Europe’s top young goalkeepers.” The club enters this new chapter following the departure of manager Eddie Howe, who left his position last week after five years at the helm.
The Magpies are looking to improve after struggling to a 12th-place finish in the Premier League last season, compounded by a difficult summer transfer window. Key departures have included Sandro Tonali to Tottenham and Anthony Gordon to Barcelona, while captain Bruno Guimaraes remains linked to Arsenal. Newcastle will begin their new Premier League campaign at home against Liverpool on August 23.
