‘Quickly’ - Ross Wilson gives big announcement on Newcastle United transfer plans
Newcastle United have a new goalkeeper after completing the £25million signing of Lukas Hornicek.
Newcastle United sporting director Ross Wilson has welcomed Lukas Hornicek as the club’s fifth summer signing.
Toon chiefs activated a £25million clause in the Czech international’s contract last week. Hornicek - expected to replace Nick Pope as the new No.1 - previously snubbed a move to Hull City earlier in the window.
Newcastle came calling and a move materialised quickly, with Hornicek already in Spain at the La Manga pre-season camp. He joins as part of a summer rebuild alongside Ewen Jaouen, Sean Steur, Bazoumana Toure and Aladji Bamba.
‘I’m delighted’ - Ross Wilson
“I’m delighted to welcome Lukas to Newcastle United,” Wilson said. “His progress in recent years has been remarkable and he has firmly established himself as one of Europe’s top young goalkeepers.
“We knew there would be no shortage of clubs interested in acquiring Lukas this summer after everything he achieved last season. But it quickly became evident how keen he was to be a part of what we are building here.
“I’m really pleased we've been able to conclude the deal swiftly, which has enabled Lukas to join the squad during the opening days of our pre-season training camp in Spain. Being here for the next week will only benefit him as he gets to know his new team-mates and coaching staff.”
‘Emotional’ - Lukas Hornicek
Hornicek is excited to relocate to a “huge football city” and make an impression in the Premier League. He added: “The last few days have been an emotional rollercoaster from when I first heard about the move and now I’m so happy to be here. It’s a brilliant opportunity in a new league, which I’m very excited about.
“From the very first moment I arrived here, I received a fantastic welcome and really felt the warmth of the club. Everyone has been brilliant in helping me settle in.
“I know Newcastle is a huge football city, with 52,000 fans at St James’ Park creating an incredible atmosphere and pushing the team every game. I can’t wait to play in front of them.”