French media deliver verdict on Ewen Jaouen's move to Newcastle United - this is exciting
The Gazette spoke to French journalist Julien Collomb to the get the lowdown on Newcastle United’s latest signing.
Newcastle United have made a ‘really good choice’ in signing Ewen Jaouen from Stade de Reims.
That’s the verdict of L’Union journalist Julien Collomb, who has watched the 20-year-old goalkeeper closely in his time covering Reims.
Jaouen spent time on loan at Rodez and Dunkerque before stepping up as Reims’ number one for the 2025-26 season following their relegation from Ligue 1.
The Gazette has launched a WhatsApp NUFC channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates directly to your phone. Simply click this link to join our NUFC WhatsApp channel.
And while Reims were unable to bounce back to France’s top-flight at the first attempt, Jaouen individually enjoyed a strong campaign with the most clean sheets (15) in Ligue 2, as well as conceding just 35 goals in 34 appearances.
Several top clubs have shown interest in Jaouen but Newcastle moved quickly to sign him, tying him down to a long-term contract after paying a £18million fee to Reims.
French journalist gives Ewen Jaouen insight
And Collomb, speaking to The Gazette, has no doubt Jaouen can succeed in the Premier League and believes he can make an impact this season, although says he will need time to reach his best levels.
“He's a really talented player,” Collomb said. “He's tall, really good on his line, good with his feet, and calm. He's a France youth international, and for me, he could represent the future as goalkeeper for France.
“This season, he needed time to be decisive with Reims. It was his first year in professional football with the status of goalkeeper number one. We shouldn’t forget that he's really young.
“Finally, he got 15 clean sheets, he was nominated for UNFP trophies for the best goalkeeper in Ligue 2. I think that, without him, Reims were not able to compete at the top.
“I don't have any doubt that he can be a really good goalkeeper in Premier League. He likes the responsibilities, but he will need time to be at his top.
“For me, it's a really good choice from Newcastle. He is a smart guy, really kind in a group. Really simple, he has to be much more concentrated and constant in his performances to be better.
“He has the potential to be an important actor in the Magpies’ season.”