Newcastle United have completed the acquisition of Czech international goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Portuguese side Braga, finalising a transfer valued at approximately £25.7 million. The 24‑year‑old custodian has signed a five‑year contract and is expected to step straight into the role of first‑choice shot‑stopper for the Magpies.
Hornicek’s move comes after Newcastle triggered his release clause, a clause that Braga had set in his contract. The club’s sporting hierarchy sees him as a key addition to strengthen the defensive unit, especially after a season in which he demonstrated remarkable consistency and composure between the sticks for both club and country. The Czech Republic keeper becomes the fifth player to join Newcastle during this summer’s busy transfer window. Earlier arrivals included French defender Ewan Jaouen from Reims, Ghanaian centre‑back Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim, Dutch midfielder Sean Steur from Ajax and Aladji Bamba, who arrived from Monaco.
Together, these signings signal a clear intent from the club’s new management to revamp the squad ahead of the upcoming campaign. Speaking after the announcement, Hornicek described his emotions: "The last few days have been an emotional rollercoaster – from the moment I first heard about the move to now being officially a Newcastle player, I’m thrilled to be here." He went on to highlight the allure of the Premier League, calling it "a brilliant opportunity in a new league" and expressing genuine excitement about the challenge ahead. He also praised the welcome he received upon arriving in the north‑east of England: "From the very first moment I set foot in Newcastle, I was met with a fantastic reception and felt the genuine warmth of the club.
Everyone has been incredibly helpful in making my transition smooth." Hornicek emphasized his admiration for the club’s fan base, noting that St James’ Park’s 52,000‑strong crowd creates an "incredible atmosphere" that pushes the team forward. "I can’t wait to line up in front of those fans and give everything for them," he added. Newcastle’s sporting director, Ross Wilson, echoed the enthusiasm, stating: "I’m delighted to welcome Lukas to Newcastle United.
His development over the past few years has been extraordinary and he has firmly established himself as one of Europe’s top young goalkeepers." Wilson explained that many clubs showed interest in Hornicek after his standout performances last season, but the player’s desire to be part of Newcastle’s project was evident from the outset. "We were aware that there would be competition for his signature, but it quickly became clear how keen he was to join what we are building here," Wilson continued.
He also highlighted the timing of the deal, which allowed Hornicek to join the squad for the opening days of the pre‑season training camp in Spain. "Being with the group from day one will only benefit him as he gets to know his new teammates and coaching staff," Wilson said.
While the Hornicek signing dominates headlines, Newcastle remain on alert regarding a potential approach for their captain, Bruno Guimarães, from Arsenal. The Gunners have reportedly been using intermediaries to explore a possible deal over recent weeks, though no direct club‑to‑club contact has been confirmed. Sky Sports News suggested that Guimarães was scheduled to report to Newcastle’s pre‑season camp in Spain on Sunday, but the club has yet to verify his arrival.
Guimarães has reportedly informed Newcastle that he would consider a move to the Premier League champions if a satisfactory offer materialises. However, Newcastle are keen to retain their midfield lynchpin, who still has two years left on his contract, plus an optional additional year held by the club.
The club is also awaiting the formal announcement of a new head coach. Incoming manager Matthias Jaissle is currently in Spain, and the board is expected to confirm the replacement for Eddie Howe soon, signalling a new era for the Magpies. Below is a summary of Newcastle’s recent transfer activity, illustrating the breadth of their recruitment drive: - Bazoumana Toure – Hoffenheim, £42 million - Aladji Bamba – Monaco, £35.5 million - Sean Steur – Ajax, £23 million - Ewan Jaouen – Reims, £18.5 million - Lukas Hornicek – Braga, £25.7 million - Sandro Tonali – Tottenham, £100 million (rumoured) - Anthony Gordon – Barcelona, £69.3 million (rumoured) - Joe White – Crewe, undisclosed fee - Travis Hernes – Groningen, undisclosed fee - Matt Targett – Hull, free transfer - Charlie McArthur – York, free transfer - Ezra Tika‑Lemba – Middlesbrough, free transfer - Kieran Trippier – Wolves, free transfer - Odysseas Vlachodimos – Sevilla, loan - Harrison Ashby – Luton, loan - Antonio Cordero – Cadiz, loan - Emil Krafth – released - John Ruddy – released - Max Thompson – released These moves, combined with the arrival of Hornicek, underline Newcastle United’s ambition to assemble a competitive squad capable of challenging for honours in both domestic and European competitions. The club’s leadership believes that a blend of experienced internationals and promising talent will provide the depth and quality required to thrive under the forthcoming managerial regime.
Fans can stay updated on the latest developments, match analysis, and exclusive content by following Sky Sports on WhatsApp and downloading the Sky Sports app for a seamless experience. The club also encourages supporters to use the Chrome browser for optimal video playback when accessing online highlights and interviews. As the pre‑season progresses, all eyes will be on how quickly Hornicek adapts to the pace and physicality of the Premier League, and whether his presence will solidify Newcastle’s defensive record.
With a full complement of new signings and a clear strategic direction, Newcastle United are poised to embark on an exciting new chapter.