Pep Guardiola says he cannot see 26-year-old Newcastle player leaving any time soon

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The prospect of losing key players at Newcastle United has been creeping in of late.

While it was not something Newcastle really had to consider in the initial wake of the PIF takeover at St James’ Park, it started to creep in during the January transfer window.

Kieran Trippier was touted for a move to Bayern Munich, while Callum Wilson was being linked with a shock exit to either Atletico Madrid or AC Milan.

Bruno Guimaraes, meanwhile, continues to be the subject of transfer speculation.

The midfielder has made positive noises about staying on Tyneside but that hasn’t stopped the gossip.

Manchester City, who Newcastle face in the FA Cup on Saturday, have even been mooted as a potential destination.

Still, manager Pep Guardiola believes Guimaraes will stay at Newcastle for many years to come.

Bruno Guimaraes: What Pep Guardiola has said about Newcastle star

Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of the game, Guardiola said (via Man City’s official website): “He is an exceptional holding midfielder.

“He is aggressive, with the ball or without the ball.

“At set pieces, he’s aggressive and is a real, complete holding midfielder since being at Lyon and now at a club who want to grow up and up.

“I’m sure he’s part of the project for the next years. Definitely.”

Bruno Guimaraes: Newcastle can’t blame star if he leaves

Having operated at such a high level since arriving at the club in January 2022, it’s of little surprise to see Guimaraes linked with big moves away.

Thought to have a release clause of around £100m in his contract too, he is reasonably attainable for any would-be suitors.

Ideally of course, Guimaraes would give Newcastle at least another season. Should he want to depart, however, then little blame can be attached.

At 26, he is about to enter his prime years and has the small matter of a World Cup coming up. With huge competition in the Brazil squad, playing on the highest level of European football may be important to guaranteeing his spot.

Newcastle haven’t delivered for him this season. If he does take a more tempting offer elsewhere, he can hardly be blamed.

As much as that would hurt…