Eddie Howe responds to Bruno Guimaraes’ Newcastle United transfer ‘demand’

Eddie Howe would listen to his Newcastle United players if they came forward with a potential signing this summer.

NewcastleWorld asked that exact question to the Magpies head coach following recent comments from Bruno Guimaraes and Allan Saint-Maximin.

During a light-hearted feature with the club’s matchday programme last month, Guimaraes, a £35milllion signing in January, was asked which former teammate he’d like to see United sign.

The Brazilian, perhaps unsurprisingly, said Lucas Paqueta, the attacking midfielder he formed a close relationship with on and off the pitch at Lyon. That has continued at national team level.

Earlier this week, Saint-Maximin, speaking to the French media, mentioned Nantes star Ludovic Blas as a player he’d like to see on Tyneside.

So, if a player recommended a potential signing to Howe, would he listen?

“I have signed players from many different sources over the years,” Howe replied.

“I’ve never cut off any recommendation from anybody. But of course, I’d have to go through the right process of watching and analysing the player to see if he’s right for the team.

“I’m aware of Bruno’s relationship, not just with him (Lucas Paqueta) but many of his ex-players.

“Certainly, it helps to have players play at the very highest level because those relationship and opinions can be very valuable.”

Paqueta, through his links with Guimaraes, has been tentatively linked with Newcastle ahead of what will be a busy summer at St James’ Park, although Financial Fair Play will be considered.

Howe added: “My aim, of course, is to bring more goals to the team but concede less. It’s creating players that can do both.

“We’ve sat down, discussed the squad and we’ve got a vision of where we want to take the team.

“Now the hard part comes where you have to re-shape the squad, both ins and outs, and come back with a better squad.”