Liverpool are set to join the race for highly-rated Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, courtesy of reports from Argentina.
The Lowdown: Key Man
The Brazilian has been a standout in the heart of Newcastle’s midfield this year and has formed an effective relationship with compatriot Joelinton.
Slotting in at a slightly more defensive role, Guimaraes has still managed to find the net twice and provide two assists for his teammates. Some of his strengths this season have included his tenacity in tackling and commitment to making blocks – he ranks in the top 10% for both attributes in relation to his positional peers across Europe (via FBref).
The 24-year-old has actually only played 27 games for the Magpies and has also battled a hamstring issue this season, making his stellar form even more impressive.
The Latest: Highly Regarded
On the back of these good performances, it seems that there is now a large interest in the midfielder, which includes Liverpool, according to TNT Sports.
Other European giants such as Real Madrid, as well as Premier League rivals Chelsea, are also keeping their eye on the Magpies sensation.
It’s thought that if the Brazilian star does not sign a contract extension in the near future, then competition for his signature will be rife as teams with considerable financial backing will test Newcastle’s resolve after a hot start to life in the northeast.
This development would suggest that if Liverpool are keen to get their hands on the emerging talent, they’re going to have some serious competition.
Interestingly, the report also mentions that Newcastle are not keen on losing their talisman either, stating that they are keen to tie him down to a new long-term contract, with Guimaraes currently earning around £120k-per-week.
The Verdict: Fresh Blood
Beating out potential rivals Chelsea and European giants Real Madrid to the signature of the former Lyon star – who talkSPORT’s Darren Bent described as a “maverick” earlier this season – would be a massive victory for the Reds off the field, but the on-field reward may be even greater.
Liverpool need reinforcements in an ageing midfield, where the likes of Jordan Henderson and James Milner are over 30 now. Although the club have been hotly linked with superstar teenager Jude Bellingham, signing the in-form Newcastle man may mark a more sensible, and crucially, more affordable venture for FSG.
Transfermarkt currently rate the midfielder’s value as £45m, but this value is likely to be even higher if he continues putting in top-class performances all season. Despite this, Anfield would be getting what looks like a top player with Premier League experience – which could ultimately still be good value for money.
Eddie Howe spoke glowingly of his Brazilian star earlier in the season, and also tried to shut down any speculation of a move away:
“We are trying to build a squad to make this club successful over these next few years, we want to enhance the group, not (have other clubs) take away our best players. Bruno Guimaraes has been incredible.”
Overall, it seems like it’s going to be a difficult operation for Liverpool to snatch one of Howe’s prized assets, but if they can, it may mark a significant coup and a quality addition to the side.
