Newcastle set to sign Lukas Hornicek - David Ornstein

The whirlwind week continues at Newcastle United, where comings and goings show no sign of slowing down.

Eddie Howe is leaving, Matthias Jaissle is set to take charge, the squad are heading to La Manga this weekend, and it looks like we've landed a new goalkeeper.

Reports in Portugal suggested we had stepped up our interest over the past 48 hours, and that's now been backed up by David Ornstein, who has released a positive update on Friday afternoon.

Hornicek close to Newcastle move 

Newcastle United are close to finalising the signing of Braga goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek, according to The Athletic's David Ornstein.

The 24-year-old has a €30million release clause in his Braga contract, and Ornstein reports that Newcastle are 'in the process of negotiating the payment terms', with the formalities of a deal now close to being finalised.

Newcastle had targeted Man City's James Trafford earlier in the window, but have since moved on to the Czechia stopper, who is likely to cost at least £15m less than the England talent.

Hornicek will arrive as the club's new number one, replacing Nick Pope and battling it out with Ewen Jaouen as the young Frenchman develops his game following his £18.5m switch from Reims

A much-needed refresh 

We all knew an overhaul was needed this summer, in several departments, and we've seen that materialise between the sticks.

Aaron Ramsdale's loan deal was not extended, allowing Jaouen to come in, and Nick Pope's days as No.1 will end upon the signing of Hornicek.

Two young talents with everything to prove in the Premier League, but it's a refreshing new approach from Newcastle and hopefully one that will pay off.