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The transfer links are already starting ahead of the January transfer window.

Naturally, Newcastle United are being linked with lots of players as Eddie Howe continues to try and build a squad capable of challenging across a number of fronts.

Still, what have also emerged of late are reports linking a key player with a big move away.

Indeed, despite only recently signing a new contract with the club, Bruno Guimaraes has been touted for an exit.

Reports over the weekend suggested the Brazil star had not ruled out a move to Barcelona at some point in his career, while hinting Barca had a special clause to sign the player cheaply.

Now, more insight has emerged.

Bruno Guimaraes: Newcastle expect transfer bids for Brazil star

According to Football Transfers, Newcastle do expect interest in the former Lyon star this summer.

Still, this report plays down any talk that Barcelona can sign the player cheaply. There is said to be a £100m release clause in his contract and they are not prepared to let him leave for anything under that.

Interestingly, they also suggest club director Mehrdad Ghodoussi is a huge fan of the midfielder and played a key role in getting Guimaraes to sign his contract extension.

Bruno Guimaraes: Transfer interest only to be expected

Given just how well the player has done since joining from Lyon, it’s hardly surprising to see him linked with moves away.

At some point, a club may come in and activate that release clause. Though hardly a pleasing thought, however, at least the club have safeguarded themselves somewhat.

With FFP still proving a problem, ensuring they cannot be low-balled by interested parties will at least boost the coffers with huge money should Guimaraes actually leave.

In an ideal world, Guimaraes would play for Newcastle for the rest of his top level career. Still, that is an increasingly rare thing in modern football, so at least protecting his value and safe-guarding against not getting huge money in return is the next best thing.