Bruno Guimaraes has ended speculation about his future with a fresh commitment to Newcastle.
The Brazil international had been strongly linked with a move away from St James’ Park earlier this summer and was believed to have had a £100m release in his contract active until the end of June.
Arsenal had scouted the 26-year-old, who has established himself as one of the Premier League’s leading midfielders since joining the Magpies from Lyon for around £40m in January 2022.
Manchester City also retained an interest in Guimaraes but the Brazilian has now confirmed he never had any desire to leave.
“I am always here. I never said that I would like to leave,” he told reporters on Thursday.
“I didn't know anything about it [the rumours]. My focus was always Newcastle. I'm very happy.
“The gaffer has given me a big responsibility to be in the leadership group. I want to be a leader. I want to help the club in many ways.
“Since I've been here, I've developed my game a lot. I'm grateful to him and his staff. Now I think it's time to deliver something special.”
Standard Sport understands Newcastle are in talks with Crystal Palace over a move for England centre-back, Marc Guehi.
The 24-year-old has two years left on his contract at Selhurst Park and there is a belief the Eagles would be willing to sell should their £60m valuation be met.
