Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has indicated uncertainty regarding the future of captain Bruno Guimaraes. Howe confirmed he has engaged in discussions with Guimaraes but could not provide assurances about his continued presence at the club.
Reports suggest that Arsenal is preparing an offer for the Brazil midfielder. Despite this, Newcastle has expressed a desire to retain Guimaraes, who is considered a key player for the team.
Guimaraes’ Status and Howe’s Comments
Howe shared that he has had several conversations with Guimaraes, including before, during, and after the recent World Cup. He described Guimaraes as a “great player” and a “great person,” but maintained that the specifics of their discussions must remain private.
The coach stated that he is not privy to what might happen with Guimaraes’ future, leaving such speculation to others. Guimaraes recently returned from holiday after Brazil’s exit from the World Cup and is expected to rejoin Newcastle for a pre-season training camp in Spain.
Howe drew a comparison to Liverpool‘s previous interest in Alexander Isak, who eventually sought to leave Newcastle. However, Howe emphasized that there is “nothing to say Bruno won’t be back training with us.” He highlighted Guimaraes’ role as club captain and his consistent performance since joining the team.
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Howe reiterated the club’s affection for Guimaraes, stating, “We absolutely love him and, of course, everyone will want him to stay.”
Midfield Changes at Newcastle
Newcastle’s midfield has seen some changes, including the departure of Sandro Tonali, who moved to Tottenham. To address this, the club has brought in young midfielders Sean Steur from Ajax and Aladji Bamba from Monaco.
Steur made his debut for Newcastle in a pre-season friendly against Gateshead, playing the full 90 minutes. Howe praised Steur’s performance, noting he “played really well today” and had a strong “first showing in Newcastle colours.”
Willem Weijs, who previously coached Steur at Jong Ajax, described him as “one of the highest-rated” players in their academy. Weijs highlighted Steur’s technical ability, composure, and vision, particularly in possession-based play and tight spaces.
However, Weijs also pointed out areas for development, particularly in the defensive aspect of his game, suggesting he needs to “compete better in the duels” and spend more time in the gym. Steur, Bamba, and other new arrivals like Ewen Jaouen and Bazoumana Toure, who are all young and from continental Europe, will require patience as they adapt.
In demand: Chrislain Matsima
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Howe stressed the importance of supporting these new players and alleviating pressure on them to allow for their development. The coach’s desire to retain Guimaraes is partly due to the recent departures of players such as Isak, Tonali, and Anthony Gordon.
Meanwhile, Arsenal has been active in the transfer market, confirming the signing of Christos Tzolis. The club is also reportedly exploring a deal for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior. Arsenal is monitoring the situation, with reports suggesting interest in signing the Brazilian if he becomes available.
Other transfer news includes Crystal Palace opening talks for Augsburg centre-back Chrislain Matsima. Manchester United has received a boost in their pursuit of Aurelien Tchouameni. Tottenham has also been active, with several new additions to their squad this summer.
Former Tottenham defender William Gallas suggested that Cristian Romero should consider moving to a larger club, possibly in Spain. Additionally, Arsenal is reportedly in talks with Hamburg regarding a permanent transfer for Fabio Vieira.
The summer transfer window continues to be active as clubs prepare for the upcoming Premier League season.
Source: bbc.com
