€100m star on Man City links: 'I know Pep likes my game'

Tom Weber

Updated: 20 Nov 2024 13:35 CST
3 min read

Pep Guardiola, Man City, 2024/25 — © IMAGO

Bruno Guimaraes has spoken about his repeated links with Manchester City.

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The Newcastle star has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League since joining the Magpies in January 2022. Since the summer, Guimaraes has captained Eddie Howe's side on numerous occasions, further enhancing his already sparkling reputation.

Yet in the previous transfer window, his future was anything but clear. Newcastle handed the Brazil international a new contract last year and fitted him with a release clause thought to be worth between €100 million and €120m.

Despite this hefty figure, speculation surrounding Guimaraes' future was rampant, with the likes of Arsenal and Man City repeatedly linked with the 27-year-old after his standout performances for Newcastle.

Ultimately, no club was prepared to actually cough up the money, Guimaraes continues to be one of Newcastle's most in-demand players.

Guimaraes on Man City links

While away on international duty with Brazil, the midfielder spoke extensively to local outlet Globo and addressed the perennial association with Man City, especially in light of the club desperately scrambling to sign a midfielder.

"I believe that at my club I am an idol and I have a lot of respect," he began. "I am the captain of Newcastle and it is something that if you had asked me three years ago, my biggest dream would have been to play in the Premier League. Playing, being an idol, being captain is something wonderful.

"I really like Newcastle. Of course, having Manchester City's interest shows that I am at a high level, but it was nothing more than interest. I know that [Pep] Guardiola likes my game, it is normal to have great coaches who admire your football.

"We spoke once after an interview, I praised his work, he praised my work, but it was nothing more than that."