After three seasons with Stade de Reims, goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen has secured a move to Premier League side Newcastle United.
Confirmed this week, 20-year-old Jaouen’s transfer marks the culmination of a rapid ascent in French football. Having joined Reims in 2023, he quickly established himself as one of Ligue 1’s most promising shot-stoppers.
A breakthrough season in France
This season proved decisive for the young goalkeeper. With 15 clean sheets, he achieved the best defensive record across both Ligue 1 and Ligue 2. His consistent performances earned him his first call-up to the France U21 team and caught the attention of top European clubs.
In their official statement, Reims described Jaouen as “one of the most promising young goalkeepers in French football,” praising his reflex saves, composure on the ball, and maturity beyond his years.
From loan spells to title status
The path to first-team football wasn’t immediate. Jaouen began with Reims’ reserve side before earning loans at lower-division clubs. At Rodez in Ligue 2, he made history by becoming the youngest goalkeeper to start in Europe’s top five leagues and their second divisions at just 18 years old. His next loan at Dunkerque saw his team reach the Coupe de France semi-finals.
A special connection with local youth
Beyond his professional achievements, Jaouen maintained strong ties to the local community. As a committed volunteer coach for AS Gueux’s youth teams, he dedicated several hours weekly to developing young talent. When his schedule allowed, he would even accompany the children during weekend matches across the department. His final visit saw young players from the academy gather at the Raymond Kopa Life Centre to bid him farewell.
What’s next for Jaouen?
The move to Newcastle United represents a significant step in his career. At 20, he becomes one of the most expensive French goalkeepers ever transferred, according to transfer valuations. His arrival in the Premier League will be closely watched by football fans across Europe.
