Ewen Jaouen Joins Newcastle United From Reims To Compete With Nick Pope

Newcastle United have completed a major summer move, confirming the Newcastle United transfer Ewen Jaouen from Reims, with the 20-year-old goalkeeper arriving on a long-term deal and expected to compete directly with Nick Pope for the starting role.

The transfer fee for Ewen Jaouen is reported at 18.5m (21.6m), underlining Newcastle United’s intent to refresh the squad after finishing 12th in the Premier League last season and recording only eight clean sheets across the league campaign.

Jaouen comes to St James' Park following Aaron Ramsdale’s exit, as Ramsdale returned to parent club Southampton after a season-long loan with the Magpies, leaving a clear vacancy for fresh competition in Newcastle United’s goalkeeping department.

The France Under-21 international made 34 appearances for Reims in Ligue 2 during the 2025-26 season, recording a division-leading 15 clean sheets, although Reims finished only seventh in France’s second tier despite that strong defensive record.

At six feet and six inches tall, Jaouen matches Pope’s height, yet analysts in France describe Jaouen as more comfortable with the ball at feet, which could influence how Eddie Howe structures Newcastle United’s build-up play from the back next season.

Jaouen was reportedly tracked by Chelsea and Real Madrid, but the goalkeeper chose Eddie Howe’s project at Newcastle United, as the club focus on recovering after what was widely viewed as a disappointing league campaign.

Defensively, Newcastle United struggled compared with rivals, with only relegated West Ham, Wolves and Burnley registering fewer league clean sheets, while Leeds United and Manchester United matched Newcastle United’s total of eight shutouts.

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I've heard so much about the supporters and how they are the best in the country, Jaouen told the club's official website. The passion of the entire city and the atmosphere at St James'Park are famous throughout football, and I can't wait to experience that for myself and become a true Geordie.

Jaouen’s arrival therefore reshapes Newcastle United’s goalkeeping group, adds competition for Pope and offers Howe a different profile in possession, as Newcastle United try to improve defensive stability and overall league position during the upcoming season.