Newcastle United have had to deal with key players being linked away all summer.
Such was the need to raise money quickly to avoid a ten-point deduction from the Premier League, Newcastle were forced into some difficult decisions when it came to trying to balance the books.
Eventually of course, it was Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh who departed – moves Eddie Howe admitted he was disappointed about.
Still, things looked pretty nervy towards the end of June, so much so that the club entered talks to potentially sell Anthony Gordon to Liverpool.
Obviously, nothing came of that in the end, but the England international wasn’t the only star name to be linked with a move away from St James’ Park.
Indeed, Bruno Guimaraes has been tipped to leave with Manchester City reportedly interested, even despite the fact the £100m release clause in his contract has expired.
Speculation will likely continue but Guimaraes – hailed as “remarkable” by Kieran Trippier – returned ahead of the new season for the pre-season friendly loss to Yokohama F Marinos in Tokyo on Saturday.
Bruno Guimaraes confirms he’s happy at Newcastle
Speaking after the game, Guimaraes said (via Newcastle World): “We were not at our level but it was so good for me to come where I love to be. I’m happy to be here again.
“We have the best fans in the world. Thank you to them for coming here and supporting us. We are so grateful.”
Joelinton has already dropped a huge hint about Bruno Guimaraes and Newcastle
It seems obvious that Guimaraes is happy at the club. Whether that means he’s still with Newcastle by September remains to be seen of course, but it feels unlikely he will be actively pushing to move.
Luckily, teammate Joelinton has suggested his compatriot will be staying for next season at least.
If Newcastle manage to keep Guimaraes for a season in which they can focus purely on domestic matters, perhaps they can make a quick-fire return to the Champions League, negating the need for him to leave in order to play in that competition.
The mood music certainly feels positive.
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