Newcastle United’s new goalkeeper, Lukas Hornecek, has spoken positively about his summer transfer to the Premier League club, describing the fan atmosphere at St James’ Park as among the best he has ever experienced. The 24-year-old Czech shot-stopper joined Newcastle in August from Portuguese side Braga for a reported fee of £25 million and has quickly established himself as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Hornecek, currently on international duty with the Czech Republic, told Sport.cz that the move to Newcastle was influenced heavily by the club’s clear project and ambitions. He revealed that although he had multiple offers this summer, Newcastle were the last to submit a proposal but made an immediate impression by outlining their expectations and assuring him the starting role. He also noted that the club met Braga’s valuation for his transfer without issue, which contributed to his swift decision to join.

“I just have positive feelings,” Hornecek said of his time at Newcastle so far. “We have the best fans in England. I haven’t experienced a better atmosphere anywhere outside than we have. Whenever we get the ball, I feel like the stadium will explode. They’re breathing with the team. Incredible.”

Hornecek also recounted an experience shortly after his arrival when he filmed a promotional video for the club’s social media on the stadium’s roof. He described St James’ Park as a closed stadium with outstanding acoustics, praising the intensity and noise generated by the supporters. Comparing it to other venues, he cited the Betis Seville Stadium but added that the Magpies’ atmosphere is on another level.

Regarding the summer transfer rumors linking him with European giants Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, Hornecek downplayed those reports as mere speculation that surprised him when he saw them on social media. Instead, he emphasized that Newcastle’s direct approach and the opportunity to be the club’s No. 1 goalkeeper were decisive in his choice.

Since his arrival, Hornecek has delivered a series of solid performances between the posts, reinforcing Newcastle’s defensive resilience as the club looks to build on its recent successes in the Premier League.