Newcastle’s Eddie Howe unsure on Bruno Guimaraes future amid Arsenal interest
Howe addresses Guimaraes’ future
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has stated that he has engaged in positive discussions with Bruno Guimaraes but cannot provide assurances regarding the midfielder’s future with the club. Reports indicate that Arsenal is preparing a £70m offer for the Brazil international, though Newcastle aims to retain their captain.
Howe confirmed having “really good conversations” with Guimaraes before, during, and after the World Cup. He noted that the specifics of these discussions would remain private. Guimaraes recently concluded a holiday with his family and is expected to return to Newcastle on Friday to join the squad for a pre-season training camp in Spain.
The head coach drew comparisons to Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak last summer, a situation where the striker ultimately sought to leave Newcastle. However, Howe emphasised that there is “nothing to say Bruno won’t be back training with us,” highlighting Guimaraes’ role as captain and his significant contributions to the club.
Midfield changes and new arrivals
Newcastle’s midfield has seen changes with the departure of Sandro Tonali, who transferred to Tottenham this month in a deal valued at up to £100m. In response, Newcastle has brought in young midfielders Sean Steur from Ajax and Aladji Bamba from Monaco.
Steur played 90 minutes in a recent pre-season friendly against Gateshead, with Howe praising his performance. Steur’s move from Ajax, at a fee of up to £23m, is considered rare for an academy graduate of his age. Willem Weijs, who managed Steur at Jong Ajax, described him as “one of the highest-rated” players in their academy, noting his technical ability, composure, and vision.
However, Weijs also pointed out areas for development, particularly in the defensive aspect of his game, suggesting he needs to compete better in duels and spend more time in the gym. Newcastle’s recent strategy has focused on acquiring players aged 20 and under from continental Europe, with Steur, Bamba, Ewen Jaouen, and Bazoumana Toure among the new arrivals. Howe stressed the importance of supporting these young players and managing expectations.
The club’s desire to retain Guimaraes is heightened by the recent departures of key players such as Isak, Tonali, and Anthony Gordon over the past year. Arsenal is reportedly preparing a £70m bid for Guimaraes, but Newcastle is expected to reject the offer.
Transfer market activity
The summer transfer window continues with various clubs working to strengthen their squads. Arsenal, in addition to their interest in Guimaraes, has confirmed the signing of Christos Tzolis. The club is also exploring a deal for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior and has been linked with players like Ezri Konsa, John Stones, and Jacobo Ramon.
Manchester United has seen a boost in their pursuit of Aurelien Tchouameni, with Eduardo Camavinga also on their midfield radar, alongside other targets such as Carlos Baleba, Manu Kone, Sander Berge, Danilo, and Tyler Adams. Chelsea is looking to secure Kerim Alajbegovic and Alex Scott, while Maxence Lacroix underwent a medical for a reported £52m switch.
Tottenham is reportedly eyeing Andreas Schjelderup and Rafael Leao, as Cristian Romero is said to be preparing for an exit. Liverpool has made a move for Maghnes Akliouche and is also targeting Bradley Barcola and Rayan. These activities highlight the ongoing efforts by Premier League clubs to bolster their teams ahead of the new season.
Real Madrid’s pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande could potentially influence Arsenal’s interest in Vinicius Junior, who is in the final year of his contract at the Santiago Bernabeu. If an extension is not agreed upon, Real Madrid might consider cashing in on the player this summer rather than risk losing him for free. Chelsea has also been advised to consider selling Enzo Fernandez, who has reportedly expressed interest in a move away from the club.
Crystal Palace has initiated talks for Augsburg centre-back Chrislain Matsima, following reports that Matsima was among several centre-back options being considered by the club. These discussions are ongoing, and it is unclear how they might be affected by Palace’s talks with Chelsea defender Axel Disasi.
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Source: bbc.com
