Real Madrid are allegedly continuing to consider whether to make a formal bid for Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes.
Since leaving Lyon for St James' Park in January last year, the 25-year-old has emerged as a key man for the Magpies, making 42 appearances during that time.
As well as chipping in with nine goals and four assists in all competitions, Guimaraes has helped keep Newcastle in contention for a top-four place in the Premier League standings and guide them to the EFL Cup final.
The Brazil international returned from a three-match suspension to feature against Manchester United at Wembley Stadium, albeit in a 2-0 defeat.
At a time when he possesses a contract until 2026, Guimaraes has stated in the past that he wants to become a club legend during his time at Newcastle, an indication that he is happy to turn down offers from bigger clubs.
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Nevertheless, much may depend on Newcastle's progression in the short and long term, the team having recently become outsiders to qualify for next season's Champions League through the Premier League.
According to reports in Spain, Real are monitoring any developments having placed Guimaraes on a shortlist of potential future signings.
Los Blancos are currently well stocked for options in the centre of the pitch, helped by the additions of Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni over the past two seasons.
However, Luka Modric is now 37 years of age and doubts remain over how long Toni Kroos intends to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu before hanging up his boots.
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Guimaraes may not become an automatic first choice at Real if either or both of those players stay at the European champions for 2023-24.
That may suit Newcastle as they bid to retain the services of Guimaraes, but it is claimed that the Spanish giants are admirers of the player ahead of future transfer windows.
Newcastle are said to have paid in the region of £40m when they signed Guimaraes from Lyon and would expect to recoup substantially higher than that fee if they were to consider a sale.
Real have also been heavily linked with Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham, who is allegedly valued at £132m by the Bundesliga giants.
Darren Plant
