Newcastle United have completed a €28.5 million agreement with Stade de Reims to sign promising goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen, who had previously drawn interest from Chelsea and Real Madrid. The 20-year-old Frenchman has reportedly inked a four-year contract and is set to join Eddie Howe’s squad this summer.

Newcastle secure signature of highly rated France youth international

According to Canal+, Newcastle have reached a full agreement with Stade de Reims to bring Jaouen to St James’ Park for a fee of €28.5 million. The young shot-stopper is expected to complete his move during the upcoming summer transfer window and will sign a deal lasting four years.

The acquisition marks a major success for Newcastle’s recruitment team, given the strong competition for the France youth international’s signature. Jaouen had earlier been invited to Chelsea’s training base for discussions over a potential move, while Real Madrid were considering him as a possible long-term successor to Thibaut Courtois.

Planning for life after Nick Pope

Newcastle’s move for Jaouen aligns with the club’s strategy to build for the future in the goalkeeping department. Current first-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope turned 34 in April and, though he remains an integral part of Eddie Howe’s setup, the club has been eager to bring in a younger option who can develop under his guidance.

The Magpies recently opted not to make Aaron Ramsdale’s loan move from Southampton permanent, leaving a gap in the squad that Jaouen is expected to fill. By acquiring the former Guingamp player, Newcastle have secured a goalkeeper who already boasts considerable senior experience despite his age.

Rapid rise through French football

Jaouen’s reputation grew sharply during the 2024–25 season when he joined USL Dunkerque on loan. During his spell in northern France, he played a crucial role in helping the club reach the semi-finals of the Coupe de France and push for promotion from Ligue 2, a target they narrowly missed.

On returning to Reims, Jaouen was promoted to the starting lineup after the team’s relegation from Ligue 1. Although Reims were unable to secure an immediate promotion back to the top division, Jaouen’s performances as their first-choice goalkeeper stood out as a major positive, reinforcing his image as a potential future international.

Premier League move offers a new chapter

Once the final elements of his transfer are completed, Jaouen is expected to join Newcastle’s pre-season preparations ahead of his debut campaign in England. The main challenge for the young keeper will be adjusting to the demands of Premier League football while competing for game time alongside the experienced Nick Pope. Newcastle will be hopeful that their latest investment matures into a long-term solution between the posts.