Newcastle United have triggered the £25.7m release clause of goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek, securing his services as the fifth summer signing. The Czech Republic international has completed his medical examinations in Spain and is now set to join the Magpies.
What happened?
Hornicek has been a key player for Sporting Braga, helping the team finish fourth domestically and reach the Europa League semi-finals. He kept 24 clean sheets across all competitions and earned a huge breakthrough year.
Why it matters for Newcastle United
The arrival of Hornicek comes against the backdrop of significant managerial changes at St James' Park. Eddie Howe has stepped down from his role, citing the need to recharge and take a period of rest following a highly successful tenure.
What comes next?
The official announcement of Hornicek's transfer is now considered imminent. He will become the fifth signing of the summer for Newcastle United, following Ewen Jaouen, Bazoumana Toure, Sean Steur, and Aladji Bamba. The £25.7m transfer fee will take the total summer spending beyond the £150m mark.
Background
Hornicek earned this move after a huge breakthrough year, helping Sporting Braga finish fourth domestically and reach the Europa League semi-finals. He kept 24 clean sheets across all competitions. Hull City triggered his release clause earlier this summer, but he turned them down.
Transfer details
The transfer fee of £25.7m will take the total summer spending beyond the £150m mark. Hornicek has completed his medical examinations in Spain and is now set to join the Magpies. The official announcement of his transfer is now considered imminent.
Managerial changes
Eddie Howe has stepped down from his role, citing the need to recharge and take a period of rest following a highly successful tenure. The English manager has been replaced by Al-Ahli manager Matthias Jaissle, who has joined the squad at their training camp in La Manga.
Next steps
The official announcement of Hornicek's transfer is now considered imminent. He will become the fifth signing of the summer for Newcastle United, following Ewen Jaouen, Bazoumana Toure, Sean Steur, and Aladji Bamba. The £25.7m transfer fee will take the total summer spending beyond the £150m mark.
