Newcastle United paid more than Lukas Hornicek’s release clause to complete the goalkeeper’s summer move from Braga.
The Czech Republic international arrived at St James’ Park in August on a five-year contract, although Newcastle officially described the transfer fee as undisclosed.
Braga president Antonio Salvador has now revealed exactly how much the Magpies paid.
Speaking at the Portugal Football Summit, Salvador told A Bola that Hornicek had a €30million release clause.
He said: “They paid €30.57m when the clause was €30m.”
Salvador described the transfer as a good deal for Braga and Hornicek, who wanted the opportunity to play in the Premier League.
Newcastle moved quickly for Lukas Hornicek
The revelation provides further insight into how determined Newcastle were to secure the 24-year-old.
Hornicek recently revealed Newcastle promised him the No.1 role after entering the race for his signature later than other interested clubs.
He explained that Newcastle quickly presented their project and had no issue meeting Braga’s financial demands.
Newcastle confirmed Hornicek’s arrival on 3 August, making him their fifth senior signing of the summer.
The goalkeeper has since established himself as Matthias Jaissle’s first choice.
As Read Newcastle recently analysed, Hornicek has already produced encouraging performances despite facing a significant workload behind Newcastle’s defence.
Salvador’s comments now confirm Newcastle were prepared to go slightly beyond the contractual release figure to structure a deal that suited both clubs.
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