Reims goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen in agreement in principle to join Newcastle United | OneFootball

Reims goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen has reached an agreement in principle to join Newcastle United, according to Sky Sports Switzerland journalist Sacha Tavolieri.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe wants to strengthen his options in goal at the St James Park club, and the 20-year-old Frenchman has emerged as a target.

Jaouen visited the Magpies’ facilities two weeks ago and Newcastle are in talks with Reims over a deal worth in excess of €20 million.

The France youth international will be providing cover and competition for Nick Pope as Aaron Ramsdale is expected to return to Southampton after his loan spell.

Jaouen has little experience at the top having largely played in Ligue 2, but he boasts huge potential and is capable of becoming Newcastle’s number 1 very soon.

He conceded 35 goals in 34 games for Reims in the French second division, keeping 15 clean sheets.

The likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton & Hove Albion are also keeping tabs on him, but it appears the Toons are favourites to sign him.

Reims are looking to sell Jaouen after failing to secure promotion to Ligue 1, and both clubs could reach an agreement very soon after the player gave Newcastle his word.

The Magpies will look to make much-needed squad changes in the summer following an underwhelming 2025-26 campaign.

The Frenchman could be their first summer signing, but a couple of big players should follow him as Howe looks to challenge for major silverware next season.

Newcastle are currently 13th in the Premier League table ahead of the final two games of the campaign, and they need to beat West Ham United and Fulham to finish in the top-half of the table.

Their boss will be desperate to hit the ground running next season after questions arose over his future at the club some weeks ago, and he could do with a big summer transfer window.