Newcastle: £120k-a-week star now 'planning to stay' at St James' Park

Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes is ‘planning to stay’ at St James’ Park after establishing himself as a fan favourite, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The Magpies spent more than £120million during the summer transfer window, but head coach Eddie Howe could sanction further incomings and outgoings at the turn of the year.

Guimaraes completed a £40million move from French side Lyon in January, but it has emerged that he could have made a quickfire exit from Newcastle.

That is because the central midfielder has revealed he held conversations with La Liga giants Real Madrid during the latter stages of the summer transfer window, but the Magpies insisted he was not for sale and is valued at more than £80million.

According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle are so desperate to fend off interest in Guimaraes that they are planning to enter discussions over a new contract at the end of the season.

The report suggests Barcelona and Manchester City could look to test the Tyneside giants' resolve but, having become the richest club in world football last year, they are not under pressure to sanction the South American's departure.

Guimaraes' £120,000-per-week contract is not due to expire until the summer of 2026, so Newcastle will not need to lower their financial demands or even hold negotiations if an admirer stumps up a bid when the transfer window reopens.

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Jones believes Newcastle have shown progression since Guimaraes' arrival and are on the right path to securing silverware.

The transfer insider feels the 24-year-old has set his sights on enjoying a lengthy career at St James' Park despite attracting interest.