Newcastle United returned to third in the Premier League thanks to the 1-0 win over Fulham on Sunday, but the injury to Bruno Guimaraes put a dampener on the afternoon.
The Brazil international was forced off at half time, and looked to be on the verge of tears as the two teams exited the pitch following the referees whistle.
Bruno went over on his ankle earlier in the game, and tried to carry on after receiving treatment. He was able to play a few passes, but his movement was clearly limited. The 25-year-old was constantly limping, and looked unable to carry on.
That became a reality at half time, when he was replaced by Allan Saint-Maximin. That change saw Joelinton move into the middle, as Eddie Howe leaned on the £40million man’s versatility.
However, Howe’s midfield options will be severely dented if Bruno is set for a spell on the sidelines. Jonjo Shelvey is already out with an injury, as the Magpies scour the transfer market for a replacement.
A period out of action for Bruno will only increase Newcastle’s need for further reinforcements, and could lead to Dan Ashworth stepping up the club’s interest in a new target that emerged over the weekend.
Newcastle linked with Ruben Neves even more Bruno Guimaraes’ injury
On Friday night, the Daily Mail reported that Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves is a target for Newcastle during the January transfer window.
The report adds that the Magpies are yet to make contact with Wolves or Neves, but could make a ‘significant move’ in the transfer market if injuries force their hand.
Following Bruno’s potential injury, that could open the door for Newcastle to make the signing they need. With games coming thick and fast as we look to win the League Cup and qualify for the Champions League, we will need to rely on our squad depth. And we do not have that in midfield.
Neves, who earns £58,000-a-week at Wolves, is a new name linked with a move to St James’ Park, and the 25-year-old would certainly be welcome on Tyneside.
He has the passing range and defensive awareness to play the ‘number six’ role, while he is also capable of the spectacular. The Portuguese midfielder is best known for his world class strikes, with Neves rarely scoring a tap in.
The former Porto man actually scored a rocket against Newcastle earlier this season, and is one of few players who have the honour of being able to say they got one past Nick Pope in a Toon shirt.
Whether or not a deal is possible remains to be seen, but Neves would certainly be a top class addition to Howe’s Toon squad.
Bruno’s injury surely increases the chances of a midfielder joining the club, and Neves is on Newcastle’s wanted list.