Ewen Jaouen green-lights deal after Newcastle United visit, talks over transfer fee begin

Ewen Jaouen has given Eddie Howe food for thought as Newcastle United look to bring another goalkeeper aboard this summer.

Nick Pope and Aaron Ramsdale have shared the No.1 spot at St James’ Park in 2025-26, with neither really able to hold down the spot, and the latter is only on loan right now.

Football Insider already understands that a permanent move for Ramsdale is unlikely following an indifferent 12 months in the North East, and plans are already emerging for a new shot-stopper.

Newcastle’s transfer chiefs will have some huge tasks on their hands, especially with the amount of rumours swirling around St James’ Park, but it would appear that Jaouen has already agreed to the project.

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According to transfer journalist Sacha Tavolieri (15 May), two weeks after visiting the Magpies’ facilities, Rennes’ goalkeeper Jaouen has agreed in principle to join the Premier League side.

It is understood that the 20-year-old, who has impressed in Ligue 2 this season, would compete to become the club’s first-choice shot-stopper, with talks now opening over a transfer fee.

Howe’s side are in talks over a £17.4million (€20million) deal with Reims. While Jaouen is yet to make the step up to the France national team, he has recently been given a chance by the Under-21s.

🚨 EXCL – Two weeks ago, Ewen Jaouen visited Newcastle United’s facilities. The French goalkeeper has given his agreement in principle to join the Magpies, where he would compete with the club’s number one goalkeeper. Newcastle are in talks with Reims over a deal worth €20M… pic.twitter.com/jJ9IGTd0MW

A move for the 20-year-old should send shockwaves to St James’ Park. The Magpies have looked uncertain at the back this season, and the Frenchman could help shore up the defence this summer.

Many at Newcastle have concerns over Pope, possibly due to his recent downward trajectory, struggles with the ball at his feet, and fall down the pecking order under Howe’s guidance.

There are just two games of the 2025-26 season remaining, leaving very little time for the 34-year-old to persuade anyone that he can keep his spot in between the sticks ahead of next term.

Robin Risser and Bart Verbruggen have also been mentioned as potential options this summer, but it would appear that Jaouen’s 15 clean sheets in 34 Ligue 2 games have been enough to impress.

It may seem like a gamble for many at St James’ Park, but one worth taking, with interest bound to start ramping up following the 20-year-old’s impressive performances in France.

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