According to sources, Manchester United are in advanced negotiations to sign Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimarães, with a transfer fee of approximately €80 million. However, Real Madrid's renewed interest could complicate the deal.
Newcastle United's elimination from the UEFA Champions League by Barcelona has paved the way for the 28-year-old Brazilian midfielder to leave in the summer transfer window. Manchester United see him as the ideal replacement for Casemiro, who has announced his departure. Sources indicate that Casemiro himself has recommended Guimarães as his perfect successor, citing his experience and leadership qualities. Initial contacts suggest that mutual interest from both parties could lay the groundwork for an agreement. However, Real Madrid's sudden entry into the race for the midfielder may have significantly altered the situation.
Real Madrid's admiration for Guimarães dates back to Carlo Ancelotti's tenure. The Italian coach recommended him three years ago as a successor to Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos, and the player was once on the verge of joining Real Madrid. But in January 2022, Newcastle United made an offer of nearly €50 million to Lyon for Guimarães, disrupting Real Madrid's plans and bringing him to England.
Four years later, with Eduardo Camavinga set to leave, Real Madrid are looking for a strong addition to their midfield for next season and are once again closely monitoring Guimarães. Ancelotti, who now manages the Brazil national team, has once again thrown his support behind his former club signing the midfielder, telling the trusted Florentino Pérez that Guimarães is exactly what Real Madrid need at this moment.
As Manchester United push to finalize the deal and Real Madrid rejoin the race, Guimarães could become the central figure in a summer transfer saga.
