Newcastle United trigger £25.7m release clause for Lukas Hornicek

Newcastle United have moved quickly to secure the services of Sporting Braga goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek by triggering his £25.7 million release clause. The player has already successfully completed his medical examinations in Spain.

Hornicek becomes the fifth summer signing for the Magpies, joining Ewen Jaouen, Bazoumana Toure, Sean Steur, and Aladji Bamba. This latest transfer pushes the club's total summer spending beyond the £150 million threshold.

The goalkeeper earned his move following a breakthrough campaign in Portugal, where he helped his side finish fourth domestically and reach the Europa League semi-finals. He recorded 24 clean sheets across all competitions throughout the year. While Hull City also triggered his release clause earlier this summer, the goalkeeper opted to decline their approach.

The signing arrives during a major transition period at St James' Park. On Friday, the club confirmed the departure of long-serving manager Eddie Howe. Reports suggest that Al-Ahli head coach Matthias Jaissle is already in Spain with the squad, as an official announcement regarding the new managerial appointment is expected shortly.