Newcastle have completed the signing of France Under-21 goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen from Reims for a fee that could rise to £18.5million.
The 20-year-old has signed a long-term contract at St James’ Park after keeping 15 clean sheets in 34 games in Ligue 2 last season.
Jaouen is expected to be installed as the club’s new number one ahead of Nick Pope with Aaron Ramsdale returning to Southampton after a year on loan on Tyneside.
Jaouen told the club’s official website: “I’m really excited to become a Newcastle United player.
“When I visited the training ground, I could see how passionate everyone is about the club and the work they do, and I loved the environment straight away. I also had the chance to see the stadium and it’s huge.
“As a goalkeeper, I enjoy one on one situations and playing as a modern keeper, building from the back and being comfortable with the ball at my feet. Now I want to develop alongside the amazing players and staff here, enjoy my football, and prove my value on the pitch.”
Newcastle look to right the wrongs of last summer
Jaouen is the first arrival in what is an important summer for Newcastle after a woeful window 12 months ago that saw them lose Alexander Isak and spend over £200m on the likes of Nick Woltemade, Anthony Elanga, Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey.
Boss Eddie Howe said: “Ewen is a great addition and I am delighted to welcome him to Newcastle United.
“He is an exciting young goalkeeper who has shown real promise during his time in France. He has a calmness and presence that belies his age, and he’s someone we feel can grow and improve within our environment.”
Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League last season.
