Ex-Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips believes his former club should consider making a move for Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes.
Manager Pep Guardiola is said to be keen on recruiting the Brazilian international to strengthen his options in midfield and, speaking to Sportscasting.com, Wright-Phillips said that Guimaraes has all the traits needed to play for City or even Arsenal:
“I think he’s an unbelievable player. He’s always up there in terms of duels, keeps great possession of the ball, works his socks off and he keeps that ball moving. think in terms of the way Arsenal and City play, he’s one of those guys that you want because he’s good at possession and keeping the ball within those midfield areas.”
Most Read on Man City News
“He doesn’t necessarily rush. So, for me, anyone who gets him, they’ll be delighted with what he can bring to the team.”
Is a move for Guimaraes realistic?
Magpies boss Eddie Howe has expressed some concern that his club may be forced into selling some of their best players to comply with FFP in January. That could give City the opportunity to buy Guimaraes.
However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the 27-year-old will be available on the cheap. A £100m release clause expired back in June so Newcastle can demand whatever transfer fee they like.
City need to recruit a midfielder
Even if Guimaraes proves to be out of reach, the Premier League champions do still need to fill the gaping hole left by Rodri.
The Spanish international is out until the end of the season and you can’t really rely on players like Mateo Kovacic and Ilkay Gundogan (who are both above 30) to cover the ground necessary in the middle of the park.
You would expect some movement during the January transfer window or it could be a very difficult second half of the campaign for the Cityzens.
Find out who is in Manchester City’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here