Newcastle United star’s release clause reveals worrying Premier League rival concern

Newcastle United could lose Bruno Guimaraes to a direct Premier League rival this summer, according to reports.

It is widely known that a £100million release clause was inserted into the Brazilian’s contract when he penned a bumper extension earlier this season. His new deal runs until 2028 and is worth a reported £180,000 per week.

Guimaraes has been instrumental to Newcastle’s success since arriving from Lyon two years ago. An alarming statistic is how the Magpies have failed to win any of their eight top-flight fixtures without the 26-year-old since he made his full debut in March 2022.

However, financial constraints mean Newcastle may need to offload their talisman to free up funds for future investment. Club CEO Darren Eales revealed last week that United are open to player sales to create “headroom” for potential transfer dealings.

Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona are two clubs linked with a summer move for Guimaraes, an ever-present for Newcastle in 2023-24. But a fresh update from Spanish outlet AS claims Toon chiefs have not inserted a clause which restricts his release clause to those out of the Premier League.

For example, Manchester City goal machine Erling Haaland has an option to leave for €200million should someone stump up the cash - an offer that is exclusive to non-English clubs. La Liga giants Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain are realistically the only suitors who could prise him away from the Etihad.

But that is not a provision Newcastle have considered should they choose to sell their prized asset. It would undoubtedly be a bitter pill to swallow for Toon fans should Guimaraes join another top-flight club, with Liverpool previously rumoured to be expressing interest.

The report also suggests the £100million clause can be paid in three instalments. Football analytical site transfermarkt.com value Guimaraes at £72million, placing the release fee considerably higher than his current worth.