Newcastle United have reached an agreement in principle with Reims goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Sky Sport Switzerland journalist Sacha Tavolieri. The Magpies are reportedly in talks with Reims over a €20million (£17.4m, $23.2m) deal for the 20-year-old France Under-21 international.
Jaouen visited Newcastle’s training facilities two weeks ago and has indicated his willingness to join the club, where he would compete for the number one goalkeeping spot. Personal terms have been agreed, with negotiations now focused on a transfer fee with Reims. The goalkeeper signed a new contract with Reims in April 2026, extending his stay at the French club until the summer of 2029.
This move comes as Newcastle assesses its long-term goalkeeping options, with several current players facing uncertain futures. Mark Gillespie and John Ruddy are both out of contract at the end of the season, while Nick Pope, at 34, is under contract until 2027. Aaron Ramsdale is currently with the club on loan from Southampton, adding further complexity to the position. The club’s owners, the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, are reportedly keen to proactively address the goalkeeping department.
Jaouen has made 34 appearances for Reims, all in Ligue 2 this season, since joining the club’s reserve team from En Avant Guingamp in the summer of 2023. He has quickly established himself as a promising talent in French football, attracting the attention of Premier League clubs. His arrival at St. James’ Park would provide Eddie Howe with a young and ambitious goalkeeper to develop alongside or potentially replace existing options. The signing could signal a shift towards building a long-term foundation in the goalkeeping position for Newcastle.
