Newcastle United are working on a deal to complete a move for SC Braga star Lukas Hornicek as they look to bring their hunt for a new No 1 to a swift close.
The 6ft 6in stopper has been pulled out of Braga's squad to face Zeleznicar Pancevo in the Europa Conference League amid talks over his exit.
Hornicek keen on move
Hornicek is believed to be keen on the move to St James' Park and could find himself positioned as number 1 for the new season. Newcastle's long-serving keeper Nick Pope was only named as a substitute for the clash against Bristol City - but Hornicek's £29.5million clause has not been activated just yet.
One of the big positives for Newcastle is that Hornicek is believed to be keen on a move to the North-East but there is caution from the Magpies after seeing deals for Victor Munoz opt for Liverpool at the last minute and Johan Manzambi give a verbal indication he was ready to sign for the Toon, then go to Aston Villa.
Pope's future in balance
Newcastle would have a big decision to make on 34-year-old Pope if they do push the button on the deal for Hornicek.
Braga president Antonio Salvador had confirmed a Premier League club matched the valuation of the release clause but Hornicek turned down the move last season. "We even had [a concrete approach for a transfer], but the player himself, Hornicek, refused," Salvador said. "There was an offer from England for him, for the Premier League, but the player felt he shouldn't go to that club and we are happy that he's staying here."
However, an exit for the Czech international seems to be on the cards, and Newcastle are trying to get themselves in the box seat to make the deal happen after talks today.
