Bruno Guimaraes details Pep Guardiola conversation and responds to Manchester City transfer rumours | OneFootball

Newcastle and Brazil international Bruno Guimaraes has offered insight into a discussion he had with Pep Guardiola amid Manchester City transfer interest.

The Premier League champions were widely linked with a move for the St James’ Park captain throughout the last summer transfer window, but were ultimately hesitant to sign the player via his £100 million release clause.

Following the termination of that clause during the early stages of the summer market, City remained interested in the player’s talents, but decided against entering into formal negotiations over his signature.

Manchester City would strike gold later down the line during the transfer window after Ilkay Gundogan was forced out of FC Barcelona with the La Liga side facing financial challenges and deeming the German as surplus to requirements.

Now, speaking to Globo Esporte during the ongoing international break, Newcastle United’s captain was quizzed on the subject of reported Manchester City interest and admiration from Etihad Stadium boss, Pep Guardiola.

“I believe that at my club I am an idol and I have a lot of respect,” Guimaraes responded, as translated and relayed by Sport Witness, in an immediate boost to supporters of the North-East club.

“I am the captain of Newcastle and it is something that if you had asked me three years ago, my biggest dream would have been to play in the Premier League. Playing, being an idol, being captain is something wonderful. I really like Newcastle,” he continued.

Focussing on the subject of Pep Guardiola and rumours regarding Manchester City interest, Guimaraes continued, “Of course, having Manchester City’s suggestions shows that I am at a high level, but it was nothing more than suggestions.

“I know that Guardiola likes my football, it is normal to have great coaches who admire your football. We have spoken once after the interview, I praised his work, he praised my work, but it was nothing more than that.”

It remains to be seen whether Manchester City hold any intention to reignite transfer interest in Guimaraes, and whether the extended stay of Pep Guardiola as manager into a 10th season at the Etihad Stadium will act as a further draw for the Brazilian.

The Catalan coach is expected to put pen to paper on a fresh one year extension in the coming days, with the option of a further 12 months following the conclusion of Manchester City’s 2025/26 season.

City have remained patience in awaiting a decision from Guardiola on his club future, and in turn did not open any discussions with potential successors, despite admiration in Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso.