- Newcastle United officially announce Ewen Jaouen signing
- Frenchman becomes Magpies’ first summer signing
- Jaouen’s comments prove why Newcastle signed him
Newcastle United have officially announced the capture of Ewen Jaouen as the Frenchman becomes Eddie Howe’s first signing of the summer.
After delivering a string of magnificent displays for Reims, the 20-year-old has now signed a long-term deal at St James’ Park, with the transfer fee set to be in the region of £18.5m.
Nearly £20m for a 20-year-old goalkeeper who hasn’t played outside of France’s second tier might be steep.
But speaking to the club’s official website after his arrival, the Frenchman has shown exactly why Newcastle United decided to bet on him.
Ewen Jaouen proves why Newcastle United went for him
Jaouen arrived for his medical on Monday night and was at the training ground yesterday, where a deal to bring him to the club was finalised.
It was also reported that Jaouen was blown away by the warmth of the Newcastle United coaching staff, who greeted him when he arrived.
And now, the Frenchman says one of his best qualities is to be comfortable with the ball at his feet, which is exactly why the Magpies have decided to pay a big fee for him.
“I’m really excited to become a Newcastle United player.
“When I visited the training ground, I could see how passionate everyone is about the club and the work they do, and I loved the environment straight away. I also had the chance to see the stadium and it’s huge.
“I’ve heard so much about the supporters and how they are the best in the country,” said Jaouen via Newcastle United’s website.
“The passion of the entire city and the atmosphere at St James’ Park are famous throughout football, and I can’t wait to experience that for myself and become a true Geordie.
“As a goalkeeper, I enjoy one-on-one situations and playing as a modern keeper, building from the back and being comfortable with the ball at my feet.
“Now I want to develop alongside the amazing players and staff here, enjoy my football, and prove my value on the pitch.”
Eddie Howe thrilled by Jaouen’s arrival
Howe described the Frenchman as a great goalkeeper and lauded his maturity for his age, which is a sign that he isn’t being signed just to play second fiddle to Nick Pope or anyone else.
“Ewen is a great addition and I am delighted to welcome him to Newcastle United,” said the Englishman.
“He is an exciting young goalkeeper who has shown real promise during his time in France. He has a calmness and presence that belies his age, and he’s someone we feel can grow and improve within our environment.”
Sporting Director Ross Wilson added, “We are delighted to welcome Ewen to Newcastle United. This is a signing we have been working hard on for a number of months, and we are really pleased to get it over the line.
“Ewen is a hugely talented young goalkeeper who has gained a lot of admirers across European clubs, and he has an exciting future ahead of him.
“What stood out for us, in all of our discussions, was his ambition, his focus and his determination to be here. We can’t wait to watch him develop and we know our supporters will give him a warm welcome.”
Jaouen’s arrival is only the start as the Magpies prepare to attack the transfer market in the coming months. Welcome to the club, Ewen!
