adminNewcastle United manager Eddie Howe has admitted there will be a “feeling of change” at St James’ Park this summer as the club prepares for a major squad overhaul ahead of the new season.
After an inconsistent campaign, the Magpies are entering the 2026 summer transfer window with a clear plan in place.
Howe revealed that Newcastle now have a stronger structure behind the scenes, allowing the club to be more proactive in the market rather than reacting to situations as they arise.
The club’s hierarchy, backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has approved Howe’s plans to reshape key areas of the squad. Newcastle are expected to strengthen at right-back following the departures of Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth, while attacking reinforcements are also high on the agenda.
The Magpies are keen to add a proven goalscorer, and Howe is reportedly a big admirer of West Ham United winger Jarrod Bowen.
Howe’s main objective is to complete as much business as possible early in the transfer window so that new arrivals can be fully integrated during pre-season preparations.
Newcastle have already made a significant step towards that goal after agreeing a deal to sign highly-rated French goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen from Stade de Reims.
The 20-year-old has completed his medical on Tyneside ahead of an £18 million move and is expected to be officially announced as Newcastle’s first signing of the summer in the coming days.
Jaouen arrived in the North East after Newcastle agreed a four-year contract with the young goalkeeper. Born in Paris before moving to Brittany as a child, he developed through Guingamp’s academy before joining Reims in 2023.
The French youngster gained valuable experience during loan spells with Rodez and Dunkirk, where he famously scored a decisive penalty in a Coupe de France shootout victory over Lille.
Last season, he established himself as Reims’ first-choice goalkeeper, starting every Ligue 2 match as the club secured a sixth-place finish. His performances have also earned him recognition at France Under-21 level, with many tipping him for a bright international future.
Jaouen’s arrival signals the beginning of a major reshuffle in Newcastle’s goalkeeping department.
The club opted against making Aaron Ramsdale’s loan move permanent, while veteran goalkeeper John Ruddy and youngster Max Thompson are both set to leave when their contracts expire.
Odysseas Vlachodimos is also expected to depart following his loan spell at Sevilla, and Nick Pope could leave if Newcastle receive a suitable offer.
Reports suggest talks have already taken place with Ipswich Town regarding a potential £5 million deal.
While Howe has occasionally rotated his goalkeepers in the past, he has previously stressed the importance of consistency in the position.
“I’d say you don’t necessarily naturally, or in my mind, think about rotating the goalkeeper,” Howe explained. “I think it’s a position of consistency.
“Changing a goalkeeper is possible, of course, but it’s a big call to make because I think, depending on the style of goalkeeper, a lot changes and defenders in front get used to a style.
“So, that’s something for me to consider. Certainly, rotating the goalkeeper position isn’t something I want to do.”
With Jaouen’s arrival now all but confirmed and further additions expected in the coming weeks, Newcastle’s summer rebuild is officially underway, giving Howe every reason to smile as the Magpies continue their transfer business.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
admin
