Real Madrid will no longer look to sign Bruno Guimaraes in January and Chelsea’s owner may play a huge role in snaring the superstar from Newcastle.
The 24-year-old has made a huge impact at St James’ Park since arriving in January this year. The Brazil international made 11 starts among 17 Premier League appearances in the second half of last season. He chipped in with five goals and one assist as the Magpies shot up the table and away from relegation danger.
They finished 11th but have flown out of the traps this term, sitting fourth in the standings after 13 games.
Guimaraes has played a full part, with two goals and as many assists. But it is his presence on the pitch and the way it excites the home faithful that makes a difference.
Unsurprisingly, a few top clubs have taken note of his exploits in the north east.
Links to Chelsea have recently emerged, with one report earlier this month suggesting they have already made contact with his agent.
Liverpool have also been mentioned in connection with the South American. And Spanish giants Real Madrid are also known to be keen on the talented midfielder.
But Chelsea’s interest seems to be garnering the most column inches, with the player said to be aware of the interest.
Graham Potter is now in the Stamford Bridge hotseat after Thomas Tuchel’s removal.
He will be backed in the winter window and a move for Newcastle’s star man might be in the pipeline.
And transfer guru Fabrizio Romano feels Real are no longer a threat after revealing Los Blancos’ chief Carlo Ancelotti’s plans for the new year.
The Italian said, via Romano’s Twitter: “The squad will remain the same for the rest of the season”.
Newcastle unlikely to sanction Bruno Guimaraes exit
Newcastle’s rapid turnaround in fortunes has surprised many. Despite an influx of cash after the Saudi-backed takeover, it was expected to take time for them to challenge for the top four.
But that is where the Tynesiders currently find themselves. Whether they can sustain their current form only time will tell.
But Eddie Howe has a well-drilled and motivated squad of players at his disposal.
They have lost only once in the top flight and conceded just 10 league goals – the fewest of any club in 2022-2023.
There is clearly something exciting happening at the club and Howe will not want to lose his best players.
Guimaraes future may be taken out of his hands
The ex-Bournemouth manager has already stated that Guimaraes is not for sale but Blues owner Todd Boehly may have an ace up his sleeve.
He has a close relationship with Newcastle’s part-owner Amanda Staveley. The duo watched Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham in August this season.
And, according to Chronicle Live, they spoke with Stamford Bridge co-owner Behdad Eghbali ahead of that game.
Whether Newcastle’s number 39 was up for discussion is unclear but it is obvious that many clubs would love to take him.
The Magpies paid £40m for his signature but he would now command a significantly higher fee.
He has four years remaining on his current contract. And reports claim his employers are hoping a lucrative new contract offer will ward off any thoughts of leaving.
It seems highly unlikely that the former Lyon schemer will depart in the new year.
Howe wants to add to his group of players and losing such an important star would certainly dent the confidence of a revitalised Toon Army.
