Newcastle dismiss Bruno Guimaraes exit talk amid Man Utd links
Newcastle United remain confident of retaining captain Bruno Guimaraes despite reported interest from Manchester United, with sources close to the club dismissing claims the Brazilian midfielder has agreed personal terms with the Old Trafford side. The 26-year-old has been linked with a summer move as United seek long-term midfield reinforcements, but TEAMtalk reports Newcastle are preparing a lucrative new contract to secure his future.
Guimaraes, who joined Newcastle from Lyon in January 2022 for £40m, has become a pivotal figure at St James' Park, helping the club secure Champions League qualification last season and lift the 2023 Carabao Cup. However, this season's struggles - with Eddie Howe's side currently 12th in the Premier League - have fueled speculation about potential departures. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed this week that the player's representatives held talks with Manchester United officials.
TEAMtalk's Graeme Bailey insists Newcastle's hierarchy remains calm about the situation: "There is zero panic. Bruno's camp would be negligent not to listen to proposals, but suggestions he's agreed terms are wide of the mark." The Magpies are reportedly ready to make Guimaraes their highest-ever earner with a £200,000-per-week deal, surpassing their current wage structure.
Manchester United's interest stems from their need to refresh a midfield set to lose Casemiro, with the veteran Brazilian reportedly endorsing his international teammate as an ideal successor. However, Newcastle's strengthened recruitment structure under Ross Wilson appears determined to resist pressure sales despite Premier League profit and sustainability considerations.
While United continue monitoring alternatives including Tottenham's Archie Gray, Newcastle have simultaneously issued hands-off warnings over other key assets like Lewis Hall. The northeast club's ability to retain Guimaraes could prove crucial to their hopes of rebounding next season, with financial fair play limitations requiring careful balance between squad investment and retention of core talent.
