It has been clear for quite some time that Newcastle United needed to bring in a goalkeeper or two this summer. Nick Pope, who has been the number one for many years, could be on his way out. He is 34 and has only a year left on his contract. Ipswich Town are believed to be interested in signing the veteran.
Pope’s leaving would leave a gap between the posts at St James’ Park. On one hand, it might be the right time to part ways. But on the other, the Magpies do not have a natural successor in place.
They have signed Ewen Joauen from Reims this summer. But it might be too much of an ask to expect him to come in and establish himself as the starting goalkeeper from the get-go.
So, Newcastle United need to sign a more established goalkeeper in senior football. Someone who can seamlessly take over the first-team gloves from Pope. For a long time, it had looked like that was going to be James Trafford. But he seems to be keen on a move to Leeds Utd. On the other hand, the Magpies have turned their attention towards a Czech international.
Newcastle United turn attention to Czech goalkeeper after James Trafford pursuit ends
According to a report from the Daily Mail, Newcastle United have switched sights to Sporting Braga’s 24-year-old goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek.
There is believed to be a €30 million release clause in Hornicek’s deal. In fact, Hull City triggered it earlier but the goalkeeper was not keen on the move.
It remains to be seen if Newcastle United end up making their move for the goalkeeper or not. The release clause should not be a problem for the Magpies.
If Hornicek turns out to be a proper goalkeeper in the Premier League, Newcastle United might solve their issues between the posts for pretty much the next decade to come. He is only 24 years of age after all.
Hornicek could be a solid signing
Hornicek spent a bit of time in the Sporting Braga youth ranks and then warming the bench, before getting his big breakthrough in the senior team.
He has held on to his spot since then though. He now has 88 appearances to his name and has even appeared for the senior Czech Republic national team.
So, signing someone like Hornicek would not be the worst idea in the world for the Magpies. And just because he turned down a move to Hull City does not mean that he would do the same with Newcastle United.
The fact of the matter is that Newcastle United are a team settled in the Premier League. So, a move to St James’ Park brings a lot more stability than going to Hull City.
