La Liga giants ‘turn attention’ to Newcastle United star after Manchester City transfer decision

Barcelona have reportedly joined the extensive list of clubs showing an interest in Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes.

The Catalan giants have been delivered another financial blow after they tumbled out of the Champions League in the group stages - but that has not prevented reports of yet another overhaul of their squad over the coming months. Manchester City star Bernardo Silva is said to have been a long-term target of the Camp Nou hierachy but The Sun have suggested Barca have ‘given up’ on their pursuit of the Portuguese international.

That has led to reported interest in Magpies midfielder Bruno after he made a spectacular start to life at St James Park since moving to Newcastle in a reported £38m move during the January transfer window. The Brazil international was gradually introduced to life in the Premier League and he rewarded manager Eddie Howe’s patience by playing a lead role in United’s surge up the Premier League table throughout the second half of last season. He has continued to shine during the current campaign and has been at the centre of the Magpies impresive run that has taken them into a Champions League place.

Despite the suggestion of Barca’s interest, a separate report from 90Min has stated Magpies boss Howe considers Bruno to be ‘priceless’ and suggested even an offer of over £100m is likely to be rejected as United look to hand an improved and extended contract to a player that has become integral to their plans over the last nine months.

The former Lyon star has spoken recently of his determination to become ‘a Newcastle legend’ amid speculation Chelsea were considering a move for his services. He told Sky Sports: “The experience I’ve had here has been amazing. Yes, sometimes it can be difficult to leave the house because everybody recognises me! But they (the fans) are always so friendly, so loving, not just with me but with everyone in my family. It’s always nice when there are teams looking at you, but my plan is just to do my best at Newcastle. The rest, I leave with my agent.

“I have three or four years of contract left. It’s so long. I swear I’m not thinking about other things. My focus now is just on Newcastle and the World Cup. There is a long way to go. I love playing here, I love to bond with the fans, and I want to become a legend here.”

Indeed, it is believed the midfielder is also seen as key to the Magpies reported plans to recruit young Brazilian stars. The likes of Palmeiras prospect Endrick, Santos forward Angelo Gabriel and Vasco da Gama duo Andrey Santos and Eguinaldo have all been linked with a move to Tyneside in recent months.