Bruno Guimaraes has revealed that Pep Guardiola is an admirer of his talents amid links to Manchester City.
Guimaraes has established himself as one of the most influential midfielders in the Premier League at Newcastle United, since joining the club from Lyon in a £40m deal. An integral part of Eddie Howe’s side, his performances have not gone unnoticed across the rest of the division.
He leads the Premier League for through balls and fouls drawn this season and ranks fifth in the division for progressive passes.
Manchester City were linked with activating the £100m release clause in the Brazilian’s contract in the summer and continue to be credited as admirers of the player, despite the expiration of that clause.
While representing Brazil on international duty this month, Guimaraes was asked on potential interest from the Premier League champions and said the speculation shows he is ‘at a high level’. He revealed that he once spoke to Guardiola, where mutual admiration was expressed.
“It shows I’m at a high level, but nothing more than rumours/ I spoke to Pep once, I praised his work, he praised my work,” Guimaraes told Globo.
“I know Guardiola likes my football, it’s normal to have great coaches admire your football.”
City’s hopes of signing Guimaraes could be boosted by Guardiola’s decision to sign a new one-year contract extension. The Spaniard’s current deal was due to expire at the end of the campaign but a decision has been made to continue at the Etihad into 2025/26.
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