BREAKING NEWS: Newcastle Confirms star player has Held Talks With Manchester United Over Shock January Move
Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has confirmed that Bruno Guimarães has shown a genuine interest in joining Manchester United, following what he described as an unexpected internal development at the club earlier this week.
Addressing the situation after Newcastle’s most recent match, Howe disclosed that the club was forced into urgent internal talks after becoming aware that the Brazilian midfielder had made his feelings known about a possible move to Old Trafford. According to the Newcastle manager, the revelation caught the club off guard, as there had been no prior intention to consider selling one of their most important players.
Howe explained that conversations were held behind closed doors after Guimarães clearly communicated his openness to the opportunity. He admitted that the timing and nature of the request came as a surprise, stressing that Newcastle were not actively planning for any major exits, especially not involving a player of such importance to the team.
Manchester United’s interest in the 26-year-old is understood to have been building for some time, but reports suggest it has intensified recently due to midfield issues and ongoing squad changes under Ruben Amorim. With United seeking greater control and balance in the centre of the pitch, Guimarães has emerged as a prime target.
The midfielder is believed to have a release clause valued at over £80 million, and Newcastle had initially ruled out the possibility of entertaining offers during the January window. However, Guimarães’ willingness to consider a move has reportedly forced the club to reassess its stance, despite their reluctance to weaken the squad midway through the season.
Howe admitted that situations like this are never straightforward, especially when a core player signals a desire to explore new opportunities. While reaffirming how highly Newcastle rate Guimarães, he emphasized the need for the matter to be handled with care and professionalism.
From Manchester United’s perspective, Guimarães is viewed as a long-term solution in midfield — a player capable of dictating play, offering defensive assurance, and providing leadership during a crucial rebuilding phase. These qualities are seen as vital as the club looks to restore consistency and competitiveness.
For Newcastle, the potential departure would represent a significant setback, particularly with European qualification still within reach. Guimarães has been central to their midfield identity and remains one of the most influential figures in the squad. However, with Financial Fair Play pressures and the player’s position now clear, the club may find themselves drawn into negotiations sooner than anticipated.
Should the move materialise, it would stand out as one of the most unexpected transfers of the window, reshaping plans for both clubs at a critical stage of the season.
