Newcastle Close In on £30m Move for Braga Goalkeeper Lukáš Horníček

Newcastle are closing in on a deal for highly-rated Braga shot-stopper Lukáš Horníček as Eddie Howe moves to land one of Europe's most coveted young goalkeepers, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

The Magpies have stepped up negotiations with the Portuguese club and are increasingly confident of reaching an agreement for the Czech goalkeeper, who has emerged as Howe's top target to strengthen his options between the posts ahead of the new Premier League season.

SportsBoom understands Newcastle are optimistic of striking a deal worth around £30 million, with personal terms not expected to prove a stumbling block as Horníček eyes the chance to test himself in English football.

Howe is understood to be a huge admirer of the 24-year-old, with Newcastle monitoring the highly-rated keeper for a long time. 

The Magpies first identified him as a potential target last season and have continued to track his progress closely, convinced he has all the attributes to become one of the Premier League's leading goalkeepers.

BREAKTHROUGH

Horníček enjoyed a breakthrough season in the Primeira Liga last term, making 33 league appearances for Braga. 

At just 24, the highly-rated stopper has the world at his feet and is widely regarded as one of Europe's brightest young shot-stoppers.

The Czech goalkeeper, who is regarded as having one of the brightest futures in his country's game, has represented his nation at various youth levels and is widely tipped to become a senior international for years to come.

His commanding displays, lightning reflexes and confidence with the ball at his feet have attracted admirers from across Europe, but Newcastle have moved quickly to put themselves at the front of the queue.

The Magpies have been in the market for a goalkeeper throughout the summer as Howe looks to add genuine competition between the posts. 

While Nick Pope remains a key figure at St James' Park, the England international has endured an injury-hit couple of seasons, prompting the club to plan for both the present and the future. 

Pope was previously linked with a move to Leeds United, however, the Yorkshire club are reportedly set to splash the cash on Manchester City's wonderkid goalkeeper James Trafford. 

PRIORITY

Newcastle explored moves for several other goalkeepers earlier in the transfer window before making Horníček their priority target. 

Club scouts have watched him extensively and believe he possesses all the qualities needed to become a long-term success in the Premier League.

Horníček began his career with Czech side Pardubice before joining Braga in 2019, initially on loan before completing a permanent move the following year. 

He has since developed into one of the Primeira Liga's standout performers and is now on the verge of securing the biggest move of his career.

With talks progressing positively, Newcastle are hopeful of completing another significant piece of summer business in the coming days as Howe continues to reshape his squad ahead of another campaign competing at the top end of the Premier League and in Europe.