Newcastle United have completed the acquisition of Czech goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Portuguese side Braga, sealing the deal for a reported fee of £25.7 million. The 24‑year‑old signs a five‑year contract and is expected to assume the role of first‑choice custodian between the posts for the Magpies. Hornicek’s move comes after Newcastle triggered his release clause, demonstrating the club’s determination to bring in a young, highly‑rated shot‑stopper. The Czech international becomes the fifth addition to the squad during this summer’s transfer window, joining fellow newcomers Ewan Jaouen, Bazoumana Toure, Sean Steur and Aladji Bamba.

Speaking after the announcement, Hornicek described his emotions: "The past few days have felt like an emotional rollercoaster – from hearing the initial rumour to now officially being here. I’m thrilled to be in Newcastle." He added, "It’s a fantastic opportunity to test myself in a new league, and I’m genuinely excited about the challenge. From the moment I arrived, the welcome has been warm and supportive, and everyone at the club has helped me settle quickly." Hornicek also praised the atmosphere at St James’ Park, noting, "Newcastle is a massive football city. The 52,000‑strong crowd creates an incredible vibe that pushes the team forward each match.

I can’t wait to stand in front of those fans and give my all." Newcastle’s sporting director Ross Wilson welcomed the signing, stating, "I’m delighted to bring Lukas to Newcastle United. His development over the last few seasons has been extraordinary and he has firmly established himself as one of Europe’s most promising young goalkeepers." Wilson continued, "We knew there would be intense interest from other clubs after his impressive performances last season, but it quickly became clear how eager Lukas was to be part of the project we are building here." He also highlighted the timing of the transfer: "I’m pleased we could finalise the agreement swiftly, allowing Lukas to join the squad at the start of our pre‑season training camp in Spain. Spending the next week with his new teammates and coaching staff will only help him integrate faster and adapt to the intensity of Premier League football." The signing arrives amid ongoing speculation surrounding Newcastle’s captain, Bruno Guimarães. Arsenal have reportedly been probing the possibility of a formal offer for the Brazilian midfielder, using intermediaries over the past several weeks.

However, no direct club‑to‑club contact has been confirmed, leaving Newcastle uncertain about the true level of interest. Sky Sports reported that Guimarães was scheduled to report to the pre‑season camp in Spain on Sunday, though the club has not verified his arrival. The midfielder has indicated that he would consider a move to the Premier League champions if a suitable bid is presented, while Newcastle remain keen to retain their captain, who still has two years remaining on his contract with an optional additional year controlled by the club. The club’s incoming manager, Matthias Jaissle, is currently in Spain, with an official announcement expected soon to confirm the successor to Eddie Howe, who will depart after a long tenure at the helm.

Below is a summary of Newcastle’s recent transfer activity, highlighting both incoming and outgoing players and their associated fees: - Bazoumana Toure – from Hoffenheim, £42 million - Aladji Bamba – from Monaco, £35.5 million - Sean Steur – from Ajax, £23 million - Ewan Jaouen – from Reims, £18.5 million - Lukas Hornicek – from Braga, £25.7 million - Sandro Tonali – from Tottenham, £100 million (rumoured) - Anthony Gordon – from Barcelona, £69.3 million (rumoured) - Joe White – from Crewe, undisclosed fee - Travis Hernes – from Groningen, undisclosed fee - Matt Targett – from Hull, free transfer - Charlie McArthur – from York, free transfer - Ezra Tika‑Lemba – from Middlesbrough, free transfer - Kieran Trippier – from Wolves, free transfer - Odysseas Vlachodimos – from Sevilla, loan move - Harrison Ashby – from Luton, loan move - Antonio Cordero – from Cadiz, loan move - Emil Krafth – released - John Ruddy – released - Max Thompson – released Hornicek’s arrival adds depth and competition to the Magpies’ goalkeeping department, which will be crucial as Newcastle aim to improve on their recent league performances. The club’s fans can look forward to seeing the Czech international showcase his reflexes, distribution and command of the area in the upcoming season, while he adapts to the pace and physicality of English football. Overall, the transfer signals Newcastle’s intent to reinforce key positions and build a squad capable of challenging at the top end of the Premier League under the guidance of their new manager. The next few weeks in Spain will be vital for integrating the new signings, establishing tactical cohesion, and setting the tone for what hopes to be an ambitious campaign ahead.