PSG interest in €116m Bruno Guimaraes 'genuine'

Tom Weber

• Updated: 5 Jan 2024 16:45 GMT
• 3 min read

PSG's interest in Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes is 'genuine,' according to a report.

One of the Premier League's best midfielders, Bruno Guimaraes is a sought-after commodity, especially in light of Newcastle's underwhelming campaign so far. Eddie Howe's injury-decimated Magpies languish in ninth despite the eye-watering money spent since the Saudi takeover and the coach is under pressure.

Guimaraes, for his part, has continued to impress. Late last year, he was rewarded with a fresh deal to fend off interest from the likes of Barcelona and Liverpool. Due to this new contract, the Brazilian now reportedly boasts a release clause in excess of €116 million.

There have also been rumours that his deal contains a secret Barcelona clause that would allow him to join the Catalan giants for a much more affordable fee, but even if that were true, the LaLiga side are too strapped for cash right now to pursue a deal.

Other clubs, however, have plenty of money to spend.

PSG interested

In recent days, reports in Brazil emerged claiming that PSG have begun taking a keen interest in the 26-year-old. The perennial French champions had a chance to watch Guimaraes up close in their Champions League fixtures with Newcastle and they apparently liked what they saw.

Now, journalist Joel Bland has given an update on the situation. He reported on X that PSG's interest in the player is indeed genuine, but that there is no way that Newcastle would allow him to leave in January. Guimaraes is deemed too crucial to Howe's side to lose mid-season.

Regarding the release clause, Bland cited other reports that have asserted that it is only active in the summer. If it were active this month, the Magpies would have no say on the matter and Guimaraes could walk if PSG put the necessary money on the table.

As things stand, they will have to negotiate with Newcastle, with their chances of success looking minuscule. Moreover, Guimaraes is said to be fully committed to his current side.