Bruno Guimaraes set for Man City transfer audition after admitting he’d love to play with Haaland

Manchester City have reportedly made contact with Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes as they look to prioritise a midfield signing ahead of next season.

Pep Guardiola has not hidden his admiration for the Brazilian when talking ahead of Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final tie with the Magpies. He said: "He is an exceptional holding midfielder. He is aggressive, with the ball or without the ball.

"At set-pieces, he’s aggressive and is a real, complete holding midfielder since being at Lyon and now at a club who want to grow up and up. I am sure he is part of the project for the next years. Definitely."

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According to AS, City have already contacted Guimaraes' representatives to try and beat competition in the summer. It is said City would be willing to pay his €117million (£100m) release clause, paid over three instalments.

Guimaraes is also on the radar of Liverpool and Chelsea, with both making efforts to sign the Brazilian in the past. With the duo expected to return in the summer, Manchester United could also make a move.

There are also clubs outside of the Premier League monitoring Guimaraes, reports claim. With that said, MEN Sport takes a closer look at what has been said about Guimaraes.

Magpies boss Eddie Howe has not hidden the fact he is an admirer of his midfielder, saying: "I thought he was magnificent in every aspect, especially out of possession, because we struggled to get control of the ball. He’s an incredibly passionate individual. I love that about him. He cares deeply whether we win or lose. Again, I love that about him. You