Newcastle United have secured the services of Czech international goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Portuguese side Braga for a reported fee of £25.7 million. The 24‑year‑old custodian has agreed to a five‑year contract and will be installed as the club’s first‑choice shot‑stopper. Hornicek’s move marks Newcastle’s fifth summer acquisition, joining the ranks of Ewen Jaouen, Bazoumana Toure, Sean Steur and Aladji Bamba. In a statement, Hornicek described his emotions surrounding the transfer: “The past few days have been an emotional roller‑coaster – from the moment I first heard the news to now, when I’m thrilled to be here.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to play in a new league and I’m genuinely excited about the challenge.” He added that the reception at the club had been overwhelmingly warm: “From the instant I arrived, everyone gave me a wonderful welcome. The staff and players have been incredibly helpful, making it easy for me to settle in.” Hornicek also praised the atmosphere at St James’ Park, noting the club’s massive fan base: “Newcastle is a huge football city. The 52,000‑strong crowd at St James’ Park creates an electric atmosphere that pushes the team forward each match. I can’t wait to step onto that pitch and perform in front of those passionate supporters.” Newcastle’s sporting director, Ross Wilson, expressed his enthusiasm about the signing: “I’m delighted to welcome Lukas to Newcastle United.
His development over the past few seasons has been extraordinary, and he has firmly established himself as one of Europe’s leading young goalkeepers.” Wilson highlighted the competitive interest Hornicek attracted: “After his impressive performances last season, we expected many clubs to chase him, but it quickly became clear how eager he was to join the project we are building here.” He also praised the swift completion of the deal, which allowed Hornicek to join the squad for the opening days of the pre‑season camp in Spain: “Being in Spain for the next week will help him bond with his new teammates and coaching staff, accelerating his integration.” While the focus remains on Hornicek’s arrival, Newcastle continue to monitor interest in their captain, Bruno Guimarães. Arsenal have reportedly been exploring a formal approach for the Brazilian midfielder, using intermediaries over recent weeks. However, no direct club‑to‑club contact has been confirmed, leaving Newcastle uncertain about the true level of Arsenal’s intent. Sky Sports reported that Guimarães was scheduled to report to Newcastle’s pre‑season camp in Spain on Sunday, but there has been no official confirmation of his arrival.
The midfielder has indicated a willingness to join the Premier League champions should they present an acceptable bid, yet Newcastle are determined to retain their captain, who still has two years remaining on his contract, with an additional club‑option for a third year. The club is also preparing for a managerial transition.
Incoming head coach Matthias Jaissle is currently in Spain, and a formal announcement naming Eddie Howe’s long‑term successor is expected imminently. Below is a summary of Newcastle’s recent transfer activity, including both confirmed signings and rumored moves: - Bazoumana Toure – Hoffenheim, £42 million - Aladji Bamba – Monaco, £35.5 million - Sean Steur – Ajax, £23 million - Ewen 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 Hornicek’s arrival adds depth and quality to a Newcastle side that has been active in the market, aiming to strengthen across the pitch. His experience at the international level with the Czech Republic, combined with his performances for Braga, suggests he possesses the composure and shot‑stopping ability required for the rigours of the Premier League.
Moreover, his reputation for excellent distribution aligns with Newcastle’s intent to build play from the back under the incoming manager. The club’s supporters can look forward to a competitive pre‑season in Spain, where Hornicek will have the chance to train alongside his new teammates, adapt to the pace of English football, and showcase his abilities ahead of the upcoming campaign. With a solid defensive line already in place and a clear vision from the coaching staff, Hornicek’s presence could prove pivotal in Newcastle’s quest for a higher league finish and deeper runs in cup competitions. Overall, the signing of Lukas Hornicek represents a strategic investment by Newcastle United, reflecting both immediate needs for a reliable goalkeeper and a longer‑term plan to develop a squad capable of challenging at the highest level.
The club’s active transfer window, coupled with the pending managerial appointment, signals an ambitious approach aimed at revitalising the team’s fortunes and delivering excitement to the 52,000 fans who call St James’ Park home.