“Without doubt” – Keith Downie drops big Bruno Guimaraes claim at Newcastle

Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes will be ‘knocking on the door’ of manager Eddie Howe in order to secure regular game time, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The 24-year-old arrived at St. James’ Park from Lyon during the January transfer window after completing a £40 million switch but has struggled for game time during his short stay.

Guimaraes became Newcastle’s third signing of the winter after they agreed a package of £33.3m plus around £6.5m in add-ons with the Ligue 1 outfit, with Sky Sports claiming Arsenal, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain were also interested.

However, the Brazil international has been unable to cement his place in the starting XI since completing his big-money move.

The dramatically improved form of both Jonjo Shelvey and Joelinton saw Guimaraes have to settle for cameo appearances off the substitutes bench for his first five outings in Newcastle colours.

But the South American star was awarded his first start against Southampton last time out, and he certainly grasped his opportunity to impress with both hands.

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Howe claimed that Guimaraes is “capable of the unexpected” after his most expensive signing to date scored a spectacular winner on his full debut in midweek, with his strike enough to seal a 2-1 victory over the Saints.

And the defensive-minded dynamo will surely be hoping his eye-catching display on the south coast will be enough to secure him some regular game time between now and the end of the season.

Guimaraes had to wait over a month to feature from the off for the first time for his new club, something that was perhaps unexpected given his high-profile arrival.

And Downie