Manchester United’s interest in Bruno Guimaraes has been played down by Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.
Brazil international midfielder Bruno Guimaraes‘ potential move to Manchester United has been played down.
Reuters reported that the Red Devils had held ‘advanced talks’ over a potential move for the 28-year-old Newcastle star.
Guimaraes is claimed to have been personally recommended by outgoing Manchester United star Casemiro, with work underway to sign a replacement.
Eddie Howe was asked about the potential departure in his Friday press conference ahead of their next fixture.
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Bruno Guimaraes walks with ball under his arm for Newcastle.
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images
Eddie Howe insists Bruno Guimaraes will stay
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe was facing the media back in England for the first time since their humiliating 7-2 defeat away to Barcelona.
Their top stars are being linked with exits, but Howe insists that he is unwilling to entertain the idea of Guimaraes leaving.
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Quoted via the Daily Mail’s Craig Hope, Howe said: “I don’t even know how to respond to that, I don’t even think I should because it’s a waste of my energy. Bruno’s our captain, he’s fully committed, he’s injured at the moment, his only focus is coming back to fitness.”
“For me, it’s a nonsense story. Is it a problem for us? I don’t necessarily think it is a problem for us. But it is unwanted news, I suppose, is the best way to put it. You don’t want the players distracted.
“To say our captain is in discussions with another club is totally disrespectful to Bruno more than anything else. He is totally committed here.”
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Guimaraes door not closed, but is complicated
If Manchester United were in advanced talks over a move, Newcastle would not admit it mid-season. Especially after a humiliating defeat.
The door is not closed to a move, with Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali both reported to be keen on leaving Newcastle – who will not qualify for the Champions League next season.
A deal for Guimaraes is made more complicated due to the World Cup.
Unless an early deal can be struck before the tournament, then Manchester United would have to wait until mid-July to try and secure a move.
At which point pre-season begins along with the countdown to the new season. A potentially tricky summer awaits for buyers and sellers.
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