Czech Republic international goalkeeper Lukáš Horníček has completed a permanent transfer to Premier League side Newcastle United from Portuguese club SC Braga for a fee of 30 million euros, according to Livesport Zprávy. The 24-year-old has signed a contract at St. James’ Park running until 2031.
Transfer Details and Club Reactions
The deal was finalized after Newcastle activated the release clause in the goalkeeper’s contract with Braga. Horníček traveled over the weekend to join his new teammates at their training camp in Spain to complete the final paperwork.
“The last few days have been like an emotional rollercoaster from the moment I first learned about the transfer, and now I am very happy to be here,” Horníček said following the announcement. “It is a great opportunity in a new league, which I am very much looking forward to.”
Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson pointed to the player’s recent trajectory as a key factor in the pursuit. “His progress in recent years has been remarkable and he has firmly established himself as one of the best young goalkeepers in Europe,” Wilson stated. “We knew that after what Lukáš achieved last season, he wouldn’t be short of suitors. But it quickly became apparent how much he wanted to be part of what we are building here.”
Did you know? Lukáš Horníček joins fellow countryman Antonín Kinský as a Czech Republic goalkeeper currently playing in the Premier League.
European Pedigree and Statistical Profile
Horníček earned attention across European competitions primarily through his displays in the UEFA Europa League. During Braga’s run to the tournament semifinals, he recorded seven clean sheets, leading all goalkeepers in the competition.
Data from Opta highlights his distribution abilities during league play in Portugal, where he registered 846 successful passes—the second-highest total among goalkeepers—alongside a 75% passing accuracy rate that placed him fourth overall in the division.
Before securing the move to Tyneside, the Pardubice academy product drew interest from several prominent European sides. According to available reporting, his representation received attention from Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Benfica, and Porto, while an offer from Hull City was turned down.
Building for the Future at St. James’ Park
The acquisition addresses a specific squad need for Newcastle United. While the club previously added young French goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen from Reims during the summer transfer window, management pursued a more established option capable of competing immediately at the highest level of English football.
With Horníček secured on a long-term agreement extending through 2031, Newcastle positions the Czech international as a foundational piece for future campaigns under manager Eddie Howe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Lukáš Horníček cost Newcastle United?
Newcastle United activated a 30 million euro release clause in the goalkeeper’s contract with SC Braga.
How long is Lukáš Horníček’s contract with Newcastle?
The 24-year-old goalkeeper signed a deal that runs until 2031.
What other clubs were interested in signing Horníček?
Prior to his move to Newcastle, Horníček was linked with Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, Benfica, Porto, and Hull City.
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