Bruno Guimaraes’ ‘dream’ Newcastle United signing has just handed in a transfer request

Newcastle United-linked Lucas Paqueta has reportedly told Lyon he wants to leave the Ligue 1 side this summer.

The Paqueta to St James’ Park rumours have been fuelled ever since Bruno Guimaraes admitted the attacking midfielder would be his “dream” signing for the club.

Both Paqueta and Guimaraes are international teammates with Brazil and previously Lyon before the 24-year-old sealed his January switch to the Magpies.

“It would be my dream (to sign Paqueta),” Guimaraes told ESPN in April. “Paqueta is my best friend.

“We made a relationship, not only on the field, but we lived together all the time outside. Our wives together too. It was a brotherly relationship, we still talk every day.

“It would be really cool if he could come here, but I can’t do this job.”

Paqueta tuned in to watch Guimaraes’ first Premier League start at Southampton, where he scored the club’s goal of the season with a fancy flick in a 2-1 victory.

A few months later, Paqueta then flew over to Tyneside to visit Guimaraes and his fiancee and was even pictured exploring the Quayside.

Newcastle fans are fully aware of the pair’s special friendship and would love them to reunite in the colours of black and white.

So, reports from L’Equipe claiming Paqueta has asked to leave Lyon this summer will further pique United supporters’ interest and hopes of a potential transfer.

It is understood Newcastle do hold an interest in Paqueta but recruiting in his position isn’t a priority at present. Signing a wide forward and striker, is, however.

There has been speculation of Arsenal potentially stepping up their interest in Paqueta ahead of the new Premier League campaign.