Biggest hint yet that Bruno Guimaraes will commit future to Newcastle United

Joelinton penning a bumper four-year extension is a major boost for Newcastle United’s hopes of keeping Bruno Guimaraes.

NewcastleWorld understands Joelinton is close to agreeing a new deal on Tyneside - ending months of negotiations. The Brazilian arrived as one of the club’s highest earners in 2019 but has since been surpassed by post-takeover signings.

This improved contract will commit Joelinton to Newcastle for the rest of his peak years. A knock-on effect of the deal could centre around Guimaraes, whose future at St James’ Park remains in doubt.

The midfielder only penned his enhanced contract in October but a £100million release clause has Toon fans fearing the worst. Subtle hints throughout the season suggest European football could prove key to keeping the 26-year-old.

Guimaraes dropped another hint after proving the difference with a fierce half-volley in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Fulham. He said post-match: “I hope to stay much longer. I don’t know what the future brings, let’s see, but I hope to play much more for Newcastle United.

“(I have played) 100 games for the club, wow! What a journey I have been living here. I am very happy, glad.”

Joelinton staying put is a win for Newcastle in their fight to keep Guimaraes. The duo have drawn close since the latter arrived from Lyon in January 2022.

At that point, Guimaraes was somewhat of an enigma, having joined as the first eye-catching addition of the post-takeover era while Joelinton was beginning his redemption arc as a midfielder. Just 18 months later, the former club-record signing would be appointed as one of several best men at a lavish Brazilian wedding.

“He was very good, better than I thought!” Guimaraes said about Joelinton's performance as best man. “He's a good guy, you know. It's so nice to have him as my brother.

“Our relationship is so important to me. His wife is important to my wife. We are all so close. To have him as my best man was a very good decision. Since my very first day at Newcastle, he has been a brother to me.”

With Alexander Isak also dismissing transfer talk, the stars are aligning for Newcastle to keep Guimaraes beyond the current campaign. Qualifying for Europe again is likely the final piece of the jigsaw - providing a potential suitor does not trigger his release clause.