Newcastle Set to Complete First Transfer of the Summer Window: Breaking

Newcastle United are set to complete their first transfer of the summer by signing Reims goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen, according to The Athletic’s Chris Waugh.

The Magpies identified the 20-year-old France Under-21 international as a long-term goalkeeping prospect, and Newcastle are now hopeful of reaching an agreement with Reims and announcing the deal shortly.

“Newcastle United are progressing in negotiations with Reims to sign France Under-21 international goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen and are hopeful a deal will be struck,” Waugh reported.

Newcastle sources told The Athletic that a deal has not been agreed yet, but there is belief a compromise could be reached soon.

“Newcastle sources insist that a deal has not yet been agreed but there is belief that a compromise can be reached, potentially as soon as this weekend,” Waugh wrote.

Jaouen started all 34 of Reims’ Ligue 2 matches last season and kept 15 clean sheets. He also impressed on loan at Dunkerque in 2024-25, keeping seven clean sheets in 22 appearances.

However, Waugh made clear that Jaouen is unlikely to arrive as Newcastle’s immediate No 1.

“Jaouen’s inexperience at the top level means he is unlikely to immediately be thrust into the No 1 spot after arriving,” Waugh reported.

Newcastle are still expected to sign at least one more first-team goalkeeper this summer, especially after Aaron Ramsdale returned to Southampton and John Ruddy’s departure was confirmed. Nick Pope’s future in Tyneside also remains uncertain, with reports naming Leeds as a likely bidder for the aging keeper.