Chronicle Live reported the breakthrough after Newcastle United confirmed they would not be signing Aaron Ramsdale permanently, returning the England international to Southampton at the end of his loan.
That decision, alongside the release of veteran goalkeeper John Ruddy, cleared the way for a significant incoming addition to Newcastle's goalkeeping department.
Jaouen is not expected to arrive as the undisputed number one. Nick Pope — who signed a 12-month extension until June 2027 earlier this week — remains the club's established first choice, and Newcastle are understood to be pursuing at least one more senior goalkeeper in addition to the Jaouen deal.
The 20-year-old spent last season in Ligue 2 with Reims and will arrive as a long-term development option rather than an immediate challenger for the starting position.
His potential, however, was sufficient to attract Real Madrid's interest — a fact that accelerated Newcastle's timeline and convinced the club to move decisively before the window formally opened.
Toon manager Eddie Howe has identified rebuilding the goalkeeping department as one of his top summer priorities, with Brighton's Bart Verbruggen and Manchester City's James Trafford also on the club's wishlist as potential additional options.