Eddie Howe wants the 'unique' Bruno Guimaraes to stay on Tyneside despite interest from Premier League rivals. The Brazilian continues to boast fan-favourite status at Newcastle United as attention turns to whether the Magpies can keep him away from some big-name suitors this summer and beyond.
Chronicle Live understands Newcastle have opened dialogue with the player and his representatives, while Guimaraes himself has been saying all the right things in the media of late. Bruno still has three years left on the £120,000 per week deal he signed last January.
However, Chelsea are the latest club interested in a deal for the former Lyon star, with new owner Todd Boehly still determined to splash the cash despite a whopping outlay in recent months. Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola also laid on the charm when speaking to Bruno during the Etihad clash last weekend.
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Howe wouldn't be drawn on whether contract talks had taken place in recent days, insisting his focus had solely been on preparing for the visit of Wolves. But the Newcastle chief wants his midfield maestro to stay at St James' Park 'for a long time'.
“He’s a very important piece (in our project)," Howe told reporters on Friday. "When you look at our team, I think he’s a unique player, you’re not going to find too many players like him. The way he receives the ball, his technical delivery under pressure, his eye for a creative pass.
“He’s very important and he’s at a really good age, he’s only going to get better in my opinion and his attitude is top class. He’s got a unique mix of qualities and my desire is to see him stay here for a long time.”
Guimaraes this week scooped up the North East Football Writers' Association Player of the Year award for 2022 earlier this week and spoke afterwards of his commitment to Newcastle.
“When I signed (I thought) I would like to put my name in the club’s story," Guimaraes said. I think I’m doing it, but, of course, to get my name there, I need to win a title.
“I know what a title means for the club’s story. People grow up and they never see Newcastle as champions. My motivation here is to win a title for the club.”
Howe also brushed off concerns the midfielder was carrying an ankle issue following an injury suffered last month. Newcastle will also be able to welcome Fabian Schar back into the fold this weekend.
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