Newcastle United have completed the acquisition of Czech Republic keeper Lukas Hornicek from Portuguese side Braga for a reported fee of £25.7 million. The 24-year-old signs a five‑year contract and is expected to take over as the Magpies' first‑choice goalkeeper straight away. Hornicek's move comes after Newcastle triggered his release clause, signalling the club's intention to bolster the squad with a high‑quality shot‑stopper. He becomes the fifth player to join the club this summer, following the arrivals of French defender Ewan Jaouen, young prospect Bazoumana Toure, midfielder Sean Steur and forward Aladji Bamba.
Speaking after the deal was finalised, Hornicek described his emotions as a "rollercoaster" over the past few days. He said, "When I first heard the news I was overwhelmed, and now I’m thrilled to be here. This is a fantastic opportunity to play in a new league, and I’m very excited about the challenge ahead.
From the moment I set foot in Newcastle I have felt a warm welcome from everyone at the club, which has helped me settle quickly." He went on to praise the atmosphere at St James' Park, noting that the stadium regularly hosts around 52,000 passionate fans who create an electric environment that pushes the team forward. "I can’t wait to stand in front of those supporters and give everything for the club," Hornicek added. Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson expressed his enthusiasm for the signing, stating, "Lukas has developed remarkably over the last few seasons and is now recognised as one of Europe’s top young goalkeepers.
Many clubs were interested after his impressive performances last season, but it quickly became clear how keen he was to join the project we are building at Newcastle." Wilson highlighted the swift completion of the transfer, which allowed Hornicek to join the squad at the start of their pre‑season training camp in Spain. "Having him here from day one gives him a chance to bond with his new teammates and coaching staff, and we believe that will only accelerate his integration into the team," Wilson said. The signing also arrives amid ongoing speculation surrounding the club’s captain, Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimarães. Arsenal have been reported to be exploring a possible approach for the player, though no official club‑to‑club contact has been confirmed.
Reports suggest Guimarães was due to report to the pre‑season camp in Spain, but his arrival remains unverified. The midfielder has indicated a willingness to move to the Premier League champions if a satisfactory offer is made, while Newcastle are keen to retain him, noting he has two years left on his contract with an additional club‑option year. In addition to Hornicek, Newcastle have been active in the transfer market, securing a number of notable signings: - Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim for £42 million - Aladji Bamba from Monaco for £35.5 million - Sean Steur from Ajax for £23 million - Ewan Jaouen from Reims for £18.5 million - Sandro Tonali from Tottenham for £100 million - Anthony Gordon from Barcelona for £69.3 million - Joe White from Crewe (undisclosed fee) - Travis Hernes from Groningen (undisclosed fee) - Matt Targett from Hull on a free transfer - Charlie McArthur from York on a free transfer - Ezra Tika‑Lemba from Middlesbrough on a free transfer - Kieran Trippier from Wolves on a free transfer - Odysseas Vlachodimos from Sevilla on loan - Harrison Ashby from Luton on loan - Antonio Cordero from Cadiz on loan - Emil Krafth (released) - John Ruddy (released) - Max Thompson (released) The influx of talent reflects Newcastle’s ambition to strengthen the squad across all areas, with the club preparing for the upcoming season under the guidance of incoming manager Matthias Jaissle, who is currently in Spain awaiting a formal announcement as the long‑term replacement for Eddie Howe. Hornicek’s arrival adds depth and competition to a goalkeeping department that has been looking for stability.
His experience as a Czech international, combined with his proven shot‑stopping abilities in the Portuguese league, positions him as a key figure in Newcastle’s plans to improve defensively and challenge for higher league positions. Overall, the signing of Lukas Hornicek, alongside a host of other high‑profile acquisitions, signals Newcastle United’s intent to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level in the Premier League and European competitions.
The club’s management appears committed to creating a balanced team, blending youthful prospects with seasoned professionals, all while fostering a strong connection with the passionate fanbase at St James' Park.