Newcastle United have completed the acquisition of Czech international goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek from Portuguese side Braga for a reported fee of £25.7 million. The 24‑year‑old signed a five‑year contract, with the Magpies activating his release clause to bring him to St James' Park as their new first‑choice custodian.
Hornicek joins a busy summer transfer window for Newcastle, becoming the fifth addition after the arrivals of French defender Ewan Jaouen, midfielder Bazoumana Toure, winger Sean Steur and forward Aladji Bamba. In his introductory remarks, Hornicek described the past few days as an "emotional rollercoaster," explaining how the news of his move initially caught him off guard before turning into a source of great excitement. He expressed his gratitude for the warm reception he received upon arrival, noting the hospitality of the club staff and the supportive atmosphere that helped him settle quickly. "It is a fantastic opportunity to play in a new league," he said, highlighting his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead.
"From the moment I set foot here, I have felt an incredible welcome and the genuine warmth of the Newcastle family. Everyone has been brilliant in helping me get settled." Hornicek also praised the passionate fan base at St James' Park, which regularly draws crowds of around 52,000.
He emphasized how the electric atmosphere created by the supporters fuels the team's performance and how eager he is to stand between the posts in front of such a devoted crowd. "Newcastle is a massive football city, and the energy at the stadium is unmatched. I cannot wait to guard the goal in front of those fans and contribute to the club's ambitions," he added. Newcastle's sporting director Ross Wilson welcomed the signing, lauding Hornicek's rapid development over recent seasons.
Wilson noted that the goalkeeper has established himself as one of Europe's most promising young shot‑stoppers, a reputation that has attracted interest from multiple clubs. "We anticipated that many teams would be keen to sign Lukas after his outstanding performances last season," Wilson explained.
"However, it quickly became clear how determined he was to become part of the project we are building at Newcastle." Wilson also highlighted the timing of the transfer, which allowed Hornicek to join the squad during their pre‑season training camp in Spain. He believes that the extra week of integration will be beneficial for the goalkeeper, giving him the chance to bond with his new teammates and understand the coaching staff's expectations. "Being here for the next week will only help him get to know his new colleagues and adapt to our style of play," Wilson said.
The signing comes as Newcastle remains vigilant over potential interest in their captain, midfielder Bruno Guimarães, from Arsenal. Reports suggest that the Gunners have been exploring a possible deal through intermediaries, though no direct club‑to‑club contact has been confirmed.
Sky Sports indicated that Guimarães was scheduled to report to the pre‑season camp in Spain, but his arrival has not been officially verified. The Brazilian midfielder has reportedly indicated a willingness to join the Premier League champions if an acceptable offer is presented, while Newcastle are keen to retain their captain, who still has two years left on his contract with an optional extra year controlled by the club.
The club is also preparing for a managerial transition, with incoming head coach Matthias Jaissle currently in Spain and a formal announcement regarding Eddie Howe's successor expected soon. This period of change underscores the importance of securing key players like Hornicek to reinforce the squad's foundation. In addition to Hornicek, Newcastle's summer business includes a series of high‑profile acquisitions: Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim for £42 million, Aladji Bamba from Monaco for £35.5 million, Sean Steur from Ajax for £23 million, and Ewan Jaouen from Reims for £18.5 million.
Other notable moves feature Sandro Tonali's £100 million transfer from Tottenham, Anthony Gordon's £69.3 million switch from Barcelona, and several free or loan deals involving players such as Matt Targett, Charlie McArthur, Ezra Tika‑Lemba, Kieran Trippier, Odysseas Vlachodimos, Harrison Ashby, and Antonio Cordero. The club also released Emil Krafth, John Ruddy and Max Thompson as part of its squad reshaping. Overall, Hornicek's arrival is seen as a strategic reinforcement for Newcastle United's defensive line, providing a reliable presence between the sticks as the team aims to compete at the highest level in the Premier League.
His experience at the international level with the Czech Republic, combined with his proven track record in Portugal, positions him as a vital asset for the Magpies' upcoming campaign. The club and its supporters will be watching closely as he integrates into the squad and begins his journey in English football.