Manchester United are expected to make a midfield overhaul their main priority this summer, and the club have been linked with several names as a result.
The Red Devils will lose Brazil superstar Casemiro at the end of his contract, while there is also an expectation that Manuel Ugarte will be moved on as a result of his limited game time this season, especially under Michael Carrick.
But while there are a host of names being linked, and several players on the shortlist at Old Trafford, one of the more surprising stories in recent weeks has been the reported interest in Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes.
Man Utd Held Talks Over Deal for Bruno Guimaraes
Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes smiles as he walks into St James' Park
It has been reported in recent weeks that Man Utd have held talks over a deal for the Brazil international, with 'advanced talks' held, and a meeting with his agents taking place.
However, while appearing on the Talk of the Devils podcast, The Athletic journalist Andy Mitten has revealed that he believes the interest may be manufactured by the player's agent rather than being as genuine as is being made out, after he spoke to his sources within the club.
"I saw the Bruno Guimaraes story recently. I have not heard anything from my sources on that," he said.
"I was up in Newcastle last week and I didn’t hear anything there. I suspect, but cannot prove, that is coming more from his side in regards to negotiating a new contract."
Bruno Guimaraes Would Be Perfect, But Pricey
Manuel Ugarte of Manchester Untied tries to tackle Bruno Guimaraes of Newcastle United
Man Utd know that they need proven and immediate quality in their squad next season, and the midfield is a priority for the club to strengthen in the upcoming transfer window.
Guimaraes ticks all the boxes, too. He is aggressive, strong, great on and off the ball, has leadership qualities, and has played at the very highest level. He's also be a fantastic partner alongside Kobbie Mainoo, but at 28-years-old, the club will be wary of overspending to bring him in.
With that said, Newcastle know how important he is to them and they will not make it easy for him to leave, especially to someone they likely see as a direct rival. Guimaraes also has two years remaining on his contract, meaning there isn't an immediate rush to sell.
If Mitten is saying the play is for him to get a new deal, then it's very possible, but it's certainly a deal to keep a close eye on betwenn now and the end of the campaign.
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