SC Braga is finalizing a 30 million euro transfer agreement to send goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek to Newcastle, according to sports reports from the club and media outlets covering the I Liga. The fee matches the player’s exact release clause, positioning the 24-year-old Czech Republic international among the most expensive goalkeepers in Portuguese league history.
Transfer Details and Market Valuation
Lukas Hornicek’s move to the Premier League places him firmly on the I Liga’s all-time goalkeeper transfer podium, following multiple seasons moving through the youth and senior ranks at Braga. According to league transfer records, the Czech goalkeeper trails only Ederson Moraes in historical valuation. Ederson transferred from Benfica to Manchester City in 2017 for 40 million euros. Rui Patrício holds the third spot on the podium following his 2018 move from Sporting to Wolverhampton for 18 million euros, according to club financial disclosures.
The deal progresses after Hornicek declined an offer from Hull City, opting instead for a move to Newcastle. The player featured in Braga’s opening official match of the season before the transfer talks advanced. Manager Carlos Vicens must now adjust his squad plans just over a month before the summer transfer window closes, as Hornicek served as the primary starter in goal for the Minho side.
Did you know? Lukas Hornicek was officially named to the Czech Republic squad for the World Cup, though he did not log any minutes during the tournament.
Impact on the Braga Squad
With Hornicek sidelined for the UEFA Conference League fixture against Železničar Pančevo at the Estádio Municipal de Braga—locally known as the Quarry—reserve goalkeeper Bernardo Fontes stepped into the starting lineup. According to match reports from the fixture, Fontes delivered a solid performance during his debut. Despite this encouraging display, club management anticipates adding another goalkeeper to the Braga roster before the September transfer deadline.
Vicens loses a core defensive pillar just as the domestic and European campaigns gather pace. The departure forces the coaching staff to accelerate the integration of younger alternatives or secure an external signing to maintain depth between the posts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is Newcastle paying for Lukas Hornicek?
Newcastle is paying 30 million euros, which matches the player’s release clause at SC Braga.
Where does Hornicek rank among I Liga goalkeeper transfers?
Hornicek is the second most expensive goalkeeper in I Liga history, sitting behind Ederson Moraes (40 million euros) and ahead of Rui Patrício (18 million euros).
Who played in goal for Braga after Hornicek’s departure?
Bernardo Fontes started in goal for Braga during the UEFA Conference League match against Železničar Pančevo.
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