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 custodian signed a five‑year contract, with the Magpies activating his release clause to bring him to St James' Park as their intended first‑choice shot‑stopper. Hornicek arrives as Newcastle's fifth signing of the summer window, joining fellow newcomers Ewan Jaouen, Bazoumana Toure, Sean Steur and Aladji Bamba.
The club’s sporting director, Ross Wilson, praised the young keeper, describing his recent development as "remarkable" and noting that he has emerged as one of Europe's most promising goalkeepers under the age of 25. Speaking after the announcement, Hornicek admitted the past few days have felt like an emotional rollercoaster. He explained that the moment he first learned of the move he was overwhelmed, but now feels immense happiness to be part of Newcastle.
"It is a fantastic opportunity to play in a new league, and I am very excited about the challenge," he said. He added that the welcome he received from the club and its supporters was "fantastic" and that he already feels the warmth of the organization, which has helped him settle quickly. The Czech keeper also expressed his enthusiasm for the club's passionate fan base.
"Newcastle is a massive football city, with 52,000 fans creating an incredible atmosphere at St James' Park. I cannot wait to stand between the posts in front of them and give everything for the team," Hornicek said.
Ross Wilson elaborated on the signing, highlighting that many clubs were expected to show interest after Hornicek's impressive season with Braga. "We knew there would be competition, but it quickly became clear that Lukas was keen to be part of what we are building here," Wilson explained.
He also noted that the swift conclusion of the deal allowed Hornicek to join Newcastle's pre‑season training camp in Spain from day one, giving him valuable time to bond with teammates and understand the coaching staff's expectations. Hornicek's arrival comes at a time when Newcastle are also navigating transfer speculation surrounding their captain, Bruno Guimarães.
Arsenal have been reported to be making informal inquiries about the Brazilian midfielder, but according to club statements there has yet to be any direct contact between the two clubs. Reports suggested Guimarães was due to report to the pre‑season camp in Spain, though his status remains unconfirmed.
Newcastle have indicated they wish to retain their captain, who has two years left on his contract with an optional extra year held by the club. The Magpies are also preparing for the imminent appointment of a new head coach.
Incoming manager Matthias Jaissle is currently in Spain, and a formal announcement confirming Eddie Howe's departure and Jaissle's arrival is expected shortly. In addition to Hornicek, Newcastle's summer business includes several high‑profile signings: 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 include Sandro Tonali arriving from Tottenham for £100 million, Anthony Gordon heading to Barcelona for £69.3 million, and a number of free transfers and loan deals such as Matt Targett from Hull, Charlie McArthur from York, and Ezra Tika‑Lemba from Middlesbrough.
The club also confirmed the release of several players, including Emil Krafth, John Ruddy and Max Thompson, as part of the squad overhaul. Overall, Hornicek's signing signals Newcastle's intent to strengthen the spine of the team ahead of the upcoming Premier League campaign.
With a blend of experienced internationals and promising young talent, the Magpies are positioning themselves to compete on multiple fronts, aiming to improve on last season's performance and deliver excitement to the 52,000 supporters who fill St James' Park each match day.