Newcastle United are poised to sign Ewen Jaouen, the 20-year-old goalkeeper from Stade Reims, according to reports in Germany. The move appears to close the door on Freiburg’s Noah Atubolu, who had expressed a strong desire to join the Premier League club.
Bild reports that Atubolu had long hoped for a transfer to St. James’ Park, viewing a move to Newcastle as a fulfillment of a long-held ambition. However, the club’s apparent preference for Jaouen significantly reduces the likelihood of the 24-year-old completing a switch to the North East. Newcastle have been in the market for goalkeeping reinforcements following an injury to Nick Pope.
Atubolu’s situation at Freiburg is also increasingly untenable. The Bundesliga club have already secured Mio Backhaus from Werder Bremen as a replacement, effectively signalling the end of Atubolu’s time with the Black Forest side. He made 32 appearances in the Bundesliga last season, establishing himself as a regular starter, but the arrival of Backhaus has altered the dynamic.
Several other European clubs are now monitoring Atubolu’s availability. Bild names Real Sociedad, Atlético Madrid, AC Milan, Inter Milan, and Napoli as potential destinations for the German goalkeeper. Each of these clubs could offer Atubolu a prominent role, and potentially Champions League football, something Newcastle can offer this season.
Jaouen, meanwhile, has yet to establish himself as a first-team regular at Reims, having made only a handful of appearances for the Ligue 1 side. His arrival at Newcastle would likely see him initially serve as a backup option, providing cover for Pope and potentially competing with Martin Dúbravka. The signing represents a long-term investment for the Magpies, who are building a squad capable of challenging for top honours.
