Eddie Howe has admitted it won't be 'easy' to find more players like Bruno Guimaraes - even if the Newcastle United star fits the 'profile' that the club want.
Bruno was named the North East Football Writers' player of the year last week following an impressive start to his Newcastle career. Bruno marked his first start for the club with a stunning backheeled goal against Southampton at St Mary's 12 months ago and the midfielder has not looked back since.
Bruno has become of the Premier League's most influential players in his position and it is not a coincidence that Newcastle have not won any of the six league games the Brazil international has missed this season. Even Man City boss Pep Guardiola went as far to describe Bruno as a 'top-class' player last week.
READ MORE: Newcastle boss Eddie Howe sends message to Liverpool owner John Henry after spending limit call
Bruno has plenty of admirers, but Howe stressed once again on Friday that his 'desire' was for the 25-year-old to stay at the club for a 'long time' - just days after the player said he was thinking about doing just that. Continuing to evolve and match Bruno's lofty ambitions will be crucial so could Newcastle find more players like the midfielder in the summer to help achieve their long-term goals?
"I would love to say, 'Yes, that is the profile' because Bruno has gone on to do brilliant things for the team, for the club, and we hope there are many more of those moments to come," Howe told reporters. "Finding players like that who are affordable and all the other things that go into a transfer is not easy."
READ NEXT
Everything Eddie Howe said on Wolves, injuries and Bruno's contract at Newcastle press conference
Richarlison turns the air blue as Newcastle are given hope by Spurs after furious reaction
Newcastle may have found FFP solution to save millions who is 'one of the top guys around'
Liverpool owner calls on Premier League to bring in 'limits on spending' amid Newcastle threat
Arsenal, Liverpool and Man City players' 'annoying' Newcastle stadium admission crowd will love
