Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton has moved to dismiss reports that Arsenal-linked Bruno Guimaraes will leave. The Magpies missed out on European qualification after a difficult campaign for Eddie Howe’s side.
The St James’ Park side returned to elite European football after qualifying for the Champions League but their hopes of a decent run in the competition came to an end in the group stages. Newcastle faced a tough draw as they were pitted against Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan.
Arsenal have been repeatedly linked with the Brazil midfielder in recent years, but know they would have to negotiate with Newcastle after a £100million release clause in his contract expired at the end of June. Bruno has been one of the standout players in the North East after they enjoyed a rise to become Champions League contenders, the former Lyon playmaker captured the eye of a number of suitors with Mikel Arteta’s side seemingly among them.
Newcastle face a quest to return to the top four but will undoubtedly have competition from Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United. For their upcoming campaign, which kicks off at home to Southampton, Bruno will remain in Howe’s ranks according to his midfield partner Joelinton.
He said: “I think Bruno’s going to stay. He tells me he’s going to come back next week [from a post-Copa America break] and get ready for the season.
“I know him, he loves the club. He loves the fans, he enjoys his life in Newcastle. I think he’s glad to be there for his life as well as for football.”
