Newcastle plot new talks for £40m “difference-maker” after Isak disaster

Newcastle United were one of the most talked-about clubs in Europe during the summer transfer window, but not for the right reasons.

The Magpies lifted their first trophy in 70 years and qualified for the Champions League with a fifth-place finish in the Premier League, raising expectations for a landmark transfer window.

However, star striker Alexander Isak threw a spanner in the works when he made it clear he wanted to leave Tyneside in pursuit of a move to Liverpool.

The saga dominated headlines for months and overshadowed some of Newcastle’s impressive business, which saw Nick Woltemade, Malick Thiaw, Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey all arrive at the club.

There have been encouraging signs that Woltemade can help fill the void left by Isak, but Newcastle will be determined to avoid a repeat of such a destabilising situation with another key player next summer.

Bruno Guimarães has long attracted interest from Manchester City thanks to his impact at St James’ Park.

The Newcastle captain signed a new five-year deal in late 2023, but it is now being reported that the club are set to make further moves to secure his future and fend off potential suitors.

Speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, journalist Peter O’Rourke said:

“Newcastle had a lot to focus on in the summer with the Alexander Isak transfer saga, and they don’t want to lose any more of their star players.”

“As I said, Guimarães seems like he’s happy at Newcastle. We know that Newcastle are very happy with him.”

“I would imagine there’ll be discussions potentially to be held over a new contract to see if they can keep him on Tyneside as well, but a lot will depend on how Newcastle are doing and performing.”

“If they’re competing in the Champions League, I don’t see any reason why Guimarães would push for a move away.”

Will Bruno Guimarães stay at Newcastle?

There is no doubt that the Brazilian is one of the Premier League’s best midfielders and a huge influence on Newcastle’s recent success.

The 27-year-old – once hailed a “difference-maker” by his manager – joined for £40m in 2022 and has since embraced the leadership role, setting high standards with consistent and dominant performances.

Losing his presence would be a devastating blow for the Magpies, so it would come as no surprise to see the club use every resource available to keep him settled long term.

Eddie Howe has built a formidable midfield trio, with Joelinton and Sandro Tonali usually partnering Guimarães in the centre of the pitch.

Maintaining that consistency will be vital if Newcastle are to satisfy their big ambitions both domestically and in Europe.

As a result, it will be interesting to see if Newcastle do move to extend Guimarães’ contract, and whether this time they can avoid another drawn-out transfer saga.

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Rebekka Arnold

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Rebekka Arnold is an experienced writer with a strong background in digital media, PR and football journalism. Since 2021, Rebekka has written opinion pieces and match reaction content for Football Fancast, part of the Snack Media network, building on her growing presence in the football community through viral Twitter content and podcasting. Now at Transfer Tavern, Rebekka brings her sharp eye for analysis and deep passion for the game to deliver engaging football opinion and breaking transfer news content.

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