Newcastle United have not yet had to deal with the prospect of key players leaving since the takeover.
Such has been the rapid-fire upward trajectory Newcastle have embarked on in the PIF era, it’s just not something that has emerged on the radar.
Still, that doesn’t mean that will always be the case.
Indeed, Chelsea and Liverpool have reportedly already tried to sign Bruno Guimaraes, who is also said to be of long-standing interest to Real Madrid.
While the Brazil international is thought to be close to signing a new contract at St James’ Park, there has been talk of a release clause, albeit one set at over £100m.
That, of course, would leave the door open to a potential exit.
As could something else.
Ben Jacobs shares what could tempt Bruno Guimaraes into leaving Newcastle next summer
Speaking to CaughtOffisde, reporter Ben Jacobs suggested missing out on the Champions League this season could mean Guimaraes considers his future on Tyneside.
“Guimaraes is currently very happy at Newcastle,” he said.
“Although he said during-preseason there was some “doubt” about his contract situation, the Brazilian has not been seeking a move away. This would only change if Newcastle fail to build on last season and ultimately get regular European football.”
Simply part of the territory for Newcastle these days
Getting back into the Champions League is naturally the goal but just because Newcastle have done it once, doesn’t mean it gets any easier.
The Premier League is relentless and all of Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham look better than last season, increasing competition for places in Europe’s elite competition.
Sadly for Newcastle, the idea of players looking elsewhere should they miss out is simply part of the territory.
The flip side in being able to attract in-demand players to the club is that they will have the demands of such talents. They would obviously want to play in the Champions League and, if they can’t get that at Newcastle, other offers will surely emerge should they keep impressing.
There’s simply no getting away from that.
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