Danilo Santos eyed by Newcastle as potential Bruno Guimaraes replacement | OneFootball

Newcastle United are actively preparing contingency plans for their midfield in the wake of growing speculation over Bruno Guimaraes’s future.

Arsenal’s aggressive pursuit of the 28-year-old midfielder has prompted Newcastle to identify Danilo Santos as the primary replacement if they are forced to sell.

The Gunners have had an initial approach for Guimaraes rejected, but are expected to return with an improved offer.

While Newcastle maintain a ‘not for sale’ stance, footballing realities dictate that an elite replacement must be lined up.

The 25-year-old Danilo fits the blueprint perfectly, sharing more than just nationality with Guimaraes.

He possesses the ideal combination of defensive resilience and dynamism to fill any potential void at the club.

Since returning to Brazil after a stint with Nottingham Forest, Danilo has become a key figure for Botafogo.

Alongside his ability to cover ground and disrupt opposition transitions, he has added attacking output to his game with 10 goals and six assists in 38 games, making him ‘confident in all three midfield positions‘.

Danilo is currently on international duty with Brazil, albeit in a more peripheral role, having played just 20 minutes.

Newcastle want to keep Guimaraes at the club. However, Arsenal may return with an irresistible offer, or the player could push for a move to secure elite European football.

If that happens, a swift move for Danilo would represent an astute piece of business for Newcastle to anchor their new-look midfield.