Suddenly, Newcastle United are at the start of a new era. One that not many would have seen coming, especially as Eddie Howe had taken charge of pre-season. But now, the Englishman has decided to leave. And he is set to be replaced by 38-year-old German manager, Matthias Jaissle.
It is not official yet. But all signs point towards Jaissle getting the job, and it is though to be only a matter of time before he finds himself in the St James’ Park hot seat. In fact, the announcement could be made as early as this weekend.
Obviously, the decision to appoint a relatively inexperienced manager like Jaissle will receive its fair share of criticism. But when you look at his track record in coaching so far, the German looks like a special talent, that is for sure.
Newcastle United will need to give him the right backing though. Any manager would struggle with the current squad they have. And it does look like the Magpies are closing in on their first signing of this new era.
Newcastle United ready to activate release clause to sign player
According to journalist Craig Hope, Newcastle United will activate the release clause for Lukas Hornicek if talks progress as hoped. It sounds like this will happen, but there are still agreements to be reached.
Nick Pope is expected to leave this summer. He is 34 and has just a year left on his contract. Also, there is interest from Premier League newcomers Ipswich Town.
The Magpies have signed a goalkeeper in this window already in the form of Ewen Jaouen. But it might be too big a task for him to make the jump from Ligue 2 to the Premier League as a starter immediately.
Of course, Newcastle United have missed out on arguably their top two targets in that goalkeeper position as well. James Trafford is headed to Leeds United. Carl Rushworth is going to join Coventry City permanently.
Is Lukas Hornicek the right fit?
Now, it looks like they have picked out Hornicek as the man to take up that first-team spot from next season. He has a €30 million release clause, which means the Magpies know exactly what it will take to sign him.
An agreement has not been reached yet. And it is worth pointing out that Hornicek has already turned down a move to England this summer, when Hull City had come calling.
Of course, Newcastle United are a much more stable team. So, one would hope that the Magpies have enough pull to get the deal done and bring Hornicek to the Premier League.
He is 24 years of age and has plenty of experience as a starter for SC Braga. He has represented Czech Republic at the international level as well.
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