Ewen Jaouen medical booked in as Fabrizio Romano confirms Newcastle agreement

Newcastle United are closing in on their first signing of the summer, with Reims goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen due to arrive.

Earlier today, reports in France revealed that the 20-year-old goalkeeper was set to sign a four-year deal at St James' Park after a £24m agreement was reached with the Ligue 2 side.

The French Under-21 international is expected to compete with a senior stopper next season for the No.1 spot, whether that be Nick Pope or another new signing.

Fabrizio Romano has given the story his 'here we go' seal of approval, confirming that a £24m switch is now imminent as he prepares to sign a deal until 2030, while Lee Ryder has offered an update on medical plans.

Jaouen due on Tyneside next week

As revealed by The Chronicle's Lee Ryder, Ewen Jaouen will arrive in the North East on Monday before completing the formalities of his £24m move.

A medical is expected to take place on Tuesday, with Newcastle's first signing of a crucial summer now considered imminent after reaching a full agreement with both Reims and the player himself.

Sources in France suggest Newcastle will pay an initial £21.5m, with another £3m in add-ons due to Reims for the 6ft 6" stopper.

Investing in gems - A sign of things to come? 

For a while now, Newcastle have needed to invest more in top young talent BEFORE they become household names and worth in excess of £50m.

The Jaouen fee is big for a 20-year-old in Ligue 2, and there is naturally some risk involved, but a potential outlay of £24m will be an absolute bargain if he reaches his potential.

This approach could be a sign of things to come this summer. Overpaying for 'Premier League proven' was a mistake last summer, although patience, good scouting and a strong plan for their development will be required if we're to turn these overseas gems into first-team stars in the years ahead.

AIK's Zadok Yohanna may fall into a similar category, as could Osasuna's Victor Munoz, with Newcastle's winger search likely to follow a similar path.