The season is fast approaching for Newcastle United.
While the transfer window has been slower as a whole for Premier League clubs this summer, Newcastle are yet to truly strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign.
Lloyd Kelly is arguably the only signing who actually improves Eddie Howe’s options, with the other two senior arrivals coming in goal, where Nick Pope will surely continue to be the No.1.
With no other major additions made, keeping key players at St James’ Park takes on an added importance.
Indeed, Newcastle have seen the release clause active in Bruno Guimaraes’ contract expire, yet he continued to be linked with a move to Manchester City.
Still, the Brazilian appeared to confirm his intention to stay at the club after making his pre-season return for the defeat to Yokohama F Marinos in Tokyo on Saturday.
That is obviously a huge boost ahead of the new campaign and former director Mehrdad Ghodoussi was as pleased as anyone.
Mehrdad Ghodoussi reacts as Bruno Guimaraes hints at Newcastle stay
Following his initial comments, Guimaraes followed things up with an Instagram post reading: “I’m very happy to be starting another season with this club that has done so much for me since my first day here.
“I’m glad to be back and more prepared than ever to have a brilliant season and to help Newcastle reach the highest possible position! Another dream has come true! Being the captain of this team is everything I’ve always dreamed of but never imagined! We’re in this together, and I’m sure I’ll be more dedicated than ever to this badge.”

Ghodoussi, who left the club earlier this summer, responded with a love heart.
Newcastle must convince Bruno Guimaraes to stay long-term
Now it looks as if Guimaraes will be staying, attention must turn to ensuring Newcastle is the best place for him over the next few years.
One more season is obviously a positive but if Newcastle can get back into the Champions League, perhaps a move away to a team regularly playing in that competition becomes less appealing.
There was always hope of keeping him for this season at least. The challenge will be to avoid a yearly saga and convince Guimaraes that there is no better team with which to continue his career.
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