Bruno Guimaraes was always likely to attract interest this summer.
The Newcastle United star has thrilled since a £40m move from Lyon in January 2022 and was recently touted as a major transfer target for Barcelona.
While links were always likely given his performances, there is a major difference these days.
Indeed, Newcastle no longer need to sell their best players unless it is on their terms.
Given the club are now planning for a Champions League campaign next season, there are surely no terms under which Guimaraes would be sold so early into his career on Tyneside.
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Now, a further update has emerged.
Bruno Guimaraes impossible to sign for Barcelona
According to Spanish outlet Sport, the idea of Barca signing Guimaraes is now considered impossible.
In fact, they suggest Barca never even genuinely considered a move for the 25-year-old given the price it would take to prize him away from St James’ Park.
As a result, the Catalan giants are not believed to have wasted a “single minute” on a transfer chase, such is his standing at Newcastle.
They then claim the Magpies are negotiating a new contract with Guimaraes, albeit the agreement is not thought to be close.
Newcastle now have to build around Guimaraes
It seems all but certain Guimaraes will be a Newcastle player next season. Now, it’s time to build around him.
With Jonjo Shelvey injured before his departure, Guimaraes had to operate out of his best position for much of last season.
The Brazil international has already stated his desire to play further forward and failing to sign another midfielder capable of playing deeper to unlock him would be a major waste.
Guimaraes has proven the beating heart of Eddie Howe’s team since his arrival and starred as a box-to-box options during his first few months. Though still brilliant in a deeper role last season, failing to get the most out of him would be hugely disappointing.