Eddie Howe has addressed Bruno Guimaraes’ future at Newcastle United amid Arsenal transfer links.
Eddie Howe has admitted he is unsure Newcastle United will be able to keep Bruno Guimaraes this summer as Arsenal push to sign the Brazilian.
Reports this week have emerged that the 28-year-old Newcastle captain has agreed to join Arsenal though Newcastle sources insist the player is not for sale and no fresh approach has been made by the Premier League champions.
But Howe, on the back of Newcastle selling Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali already this summer, as well as Alexander Isak last summer, is understandably wary about Guimaraes’ situation.
Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes. (Photo by Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)placeholder image
Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes. (Photo by Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
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“We don't want to lose our best players,” he said following the 1-1 pre-season draw at Gateshead. “That's an obvious statement to make. Losing those big two is painful for us and difficult. For me, it's been another challenging summer so far.
“We're always trying to do our best for the football club, short and long term, and try and get the squad in its best shape.”
When asked specifically about the situation involving Guimaraes, Howe added: “Yes, I've spoken to him as I would do. Bruno, normally, is just a fantastic person. We've had some really good conversations, both before the World Cup, during the World Cup and after the World Cup. What we speak about obviously has to remain private. He's just a great player and a great person.
“Look, I don't know what's going to happen with Bruno's future. That's for other people to, one, speculate about, but also conversations that I'm not part of.”
Guimaraes is currently away on holiday following his spell with Brazil at the World Cup but is expected to report back for pre-season training before the end of the month.
“Yes, I think the plan off the top of my head, I think it's 31st [July],” Howe said. “I think he's due back, so he gets an extended break because he went further in the competition and he's enjoying a holiday at the moment with his family.
“There's nothing to say that Bruno won't be back training with us.”
After being stung by Isak last summer, only time will tell if Guimaraes’ situation follows the same path.