Worrying price tag update could trigger Bruno Guimaraes exit from Newcastle United

Newcastle United have a “verbal agreement” that could allow Bruno Guimaraes to leave for £80million this summer.

That figure is £20million less than the release clause inserted into his Toon contract penned last October. Guimaraes became the highest-paid player in Newcastle’s history but his bumper new deal did little to quash transfer talk. 

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain are understood to be keeping tabs on the situation ahead of the transfer window. The Brazilian has hinted at European football being the key to him staying on Tyneside beyond the current campaign.

“We have to get Europe again and try for the Champions League,” he said after Newcastle’s win over Nottingham Forest in February. “I know it’s difficult but, definitely, (we are aiming) for the Europa League.

“Sometimes people speak a lot about me. I just speak a lot about football. I’m very happy here and I like how the fans think of me here. I enjoy my time here. The fans have been unbelievable for me and my family. I hope this can keep going for a long time.”

Reports now claim Newcastle have a gentleman’s agreement that Guimaraes can leave for £80million. Arsenal, a club that missed out on the midfielder before his St James’ Park move, are also named by 90min as being potential suitors.

Only PSG, Madrid or City are capable of triggering his release clause but the lower demands might open the door for other clubs. FFP/PSR restrictions mean Newcastle must ship players out but there would be uproar if Guimaraes were to leave given his cult-like following at Newcastle.