Real Madrid and PSG 'monitor' Newcastle United's £163m duo as European giants 'present' for Man City loss

Two of European football's biggest clubs reportedly cast their eye over two Newcastle United stars in Saturday's FA Cup exit at the hands of Manchester City.

HITC have claimed Real were represented at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday evening as Pep Guardiola's side ended any hopes the Magpies had of landing silverware this season with what was a routine 2-0 win. Although the La Liga giants will face City in the Champions League quarter-final next month, monitoring United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes was also said to be on their agenda as they begin to formulate their plans for the summer transfer window.

The Brazil star has been an overwhelming success since he joined Newcastle from French club Lyon in a £40m deal in January 2022 and has played a lead role in helping transform the Magpies from relegation candidates to European challengers over that time. Despite links with the likes of Real and Paris Saint-Germain last summer, Guimaraes penned a contract extension with Newcastle earlier this season - although the reported presence of a £100m release clause has ensured speculation over his future has never been too far from the headlines.

Speaking after the deal was agreed, Magpies boss Howe said: “He’s such an important player and he’s done so well since he joined the club. He’s been a huge success since he’s been here so I just hope that he can continue in that vein and carry on his success with us. He epitomises the recent success we’ve had. He’s put in so many good displays, he’s very consistent and he’s got a great personality off the pitch as well. He cares very deeply about Newcastle United and the success of the club and he’s got a great relationship with our supporters.”

There have been some reports suggesting the £100m release clause only applies to clubs outside of the Premier League and Real are said to be long-term admirers of the Brazilian midfielder after initially watching him during his time at Lyon.

HITC also revealed Guimaraes was not the only Magpies star falling under the gaze of a Champions League giant at the Etihad Stadium after United's former Champions League opponents PSG were said to be watching striker Alexander Isak.

The Sweden international is currently Newcastle's only fit striker as Callum Wilson continues to battle his way back from a pectoral injury he suffered in last month's 3-2 win at Nottingham Forest. PSG, who were also said to be watching City star Bernardo Silva, are 'keeping a close eye' on Isak according to the report after he scored in United's controversial draw at the Parc des Princes earlier in the campaign.