Real Madrid Monitoring Premier League Star Bruno Guimaraes Amid Contract Renewal Talks

Newcastle United is on the brink of securing a new contract with their standout midfielder, Bruno Guimaraes, as they strive to ward off advances from football giants Real Madrid and Liverpool. Telegraph Sport has learned that after months of negotiations with the Brazilian international and his representatives, substantial progress has been made this week.

Both Chelsea and Liverpool had expressed interest in signing the 25-year-old in the past two transfer windows, only to be firmly informed that he was not available for any price. Real Madrid, too, has been closely monitoring Guimaraes due to his significant impact on the Premier League since his arrival from Lyon in January 2022, initially for £38 million, which could potentially rise to £43 million with add-ons.

One key point of contention in the extended negotiations appears to have revolved around the potential inclusion of a release clause in the new contract. Bruno’s advisors have been mindful of the importance of having some flexibility in the future, while the club has resisted agreeing to release clauses since the takeover by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund in October 2021.

Sources indicate that if a release clause has indeed been included, it would be set at a substantial figure well exceeding £100 million, intended to dissuade potential suitors.

Newcastle has always been aware that there might come a time when they would consider selling the South American midfielder, especially if he were tempted by a move to Spain at some point. However, they have remained steadfast in their determination to safeguard their prized asset while also rewarding him for his outstanding performances over the past 20 months.

Considering the transfer fees recently paid for players like Declan Rice (£105 million to Arsenal) and Moises Caicedo (£115 million to Chelsea), it would be reasonable for Newcastle to value Bruno Guimaraes in a similar price bracket.

In the short term, the imminent contract extension represents a significant boost for Newcastle and manager Eddie Howe, who preferred not to have protracted contract negotiations hanging over the club. Sources emphasize that Guimaraes has not displayed any interest in leaving since his arrival in England and is content on Tyneside.

Despite a slow start in the Premier League, with three defeats in their first four games, Guimaraes remains a linchpin in Howe’s style of play, and his impending contract extension will surely delight Newcastle supporters. Already one of the top earners at St James’ Park, he is expected to join captain Kieran Trippier with wages in the region of £120,000 per week.

Source: Telegraph