‘Newcastle United close’ to making ‘magnificent’ star their best paid player in history with mammoth new deal

Newcastle United enjoyed a strong summer transfer window, bringing in solid new recruits including Harvey Barnes and Sandro Tonali to boost their chances of another top four challenge in the Premier League this season. In fact, the Magpies are on an impressive recruitment streak, having also made statement signings in 2022.

One of the key transfers from last year was Bruno Guimarães, who joined the club from Lyon for £40 million. In this current climate, that amount of money is considered on the lower end of the scale, and since his arrival at St James’ Park, the Brazilian’s market value has only shot up.

Transfermarkt currently rank him at €70 million, which is just shy of £60 million, meaning his value has increased by almost £20 million since joining Newcastle. Guimarães has become an integral part of Eddie Howe’s team and despite being a defensive midfielder, he has contributed ten goals and six assists during his time with the Magpies so far. Alan Shearer raved over his performance against Nottingham Forest last season, lauding him as ‘magnificent.’

Now, Newcastle are ready to reward him for his efforts. According to Football Insider, the club are in ‘advanced talks’ with Guimarães over a new deal and ‘are close to a breakthrough’ in agreeing terms that will see the 25-year-old become the highest paid player in Newcastle’s history.

The new contract is said to be worth a whopping £60 million and plans have been in the pipeline for some time as the Magpies look to tie their star midfielder down. The huge pay increase would reportedly put Guimarães on £200,000 per week and extend his current contract — which runs until 2026 — by another two years.

Newcastle beat clubs including Arsenal and Manchester United over the line for Guimarães’ signature, as both had reportedly been interested in bringing him to the Premier League. He has also been on the radar of Liverpool and Chelsea in recent windows.