Newcastle United’s financial situation could force them to sell star midfielder Bruno Guimaraes for a significantly lower price than expected.
According to CaughtOffside, the club is still struggling to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). This financial pressure could lead them to accept a fee considerably lower than the £100 million they were quoted for Guimaraes in the summer transfer window.
Manchester City, who were previously deterred by the high asking price, are reportedly circling again with renewed interest. Guimaraes, it seems, is open to a move to the reigning Premier League champions. His recent public criticism of his Newcastle teammates after a poor performance might have further swayed public opinion.
While the 27-year-old midfielder’s high standards and leadership are commendable, Newcastle’s recent dip in form, dropping to 12th in the league after a Champions League high against PSG, is a cause for concern.
Despite the seemingly bottomless financial resources of their Saudi owners, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), manager Eddie Howe is under pressure to deliver better results with his expensively assembled squad. Losing a key player like Guimaraes, especially mid-season, would be a major setback for the club.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is a known admirer of Guimaraes, valuing his Premier League experience and versatility as a central midfielder. While a £100 million transfer seems unlikely, City could potentially offer a fee between £60 million and £80 million, which would still be a significant sum for Newcastle.
However, completing the deal wouldn’t be straightforward. Newcastle would likely demand a high price and Manchester City’s own recent struggles, winning only once in their last 11 games, could complicate negotiations.
Newcastle fans, already disappointed with their team’s form, would undoubtedly be further disheartened if Guimaraes were to leave for their title rivals. On the other hand, City fans desperate for a turnaround would see Guimaraes as a potential catalyst to lift the team out of their slump.
