Newcastle United will maintain their firm stance on Bruno Guimaraes after a weekend of intense speculation about the midfielder's price tag. A fee of £70m was leaked by sources close to the deal on Friday, prompting a swift response from the club that the figure would not tempt them into a sale. The story was even picked up by the BBC.
However, 24 hours later, transfer aggregators on social media suggested an increased offer of £80m would follow from Arsenal. But Chronicle Live was told by well-placed sources in the capital that the Premier League champions would not raise the stakes that high this summer.
Bruno Guimaraes' Return Date
As things stand, Bruno must report for pre-season training on Friday ahead of the trip to La Manga. Eddie Howe will be hoping his captain returns with a smile and is ready for eight intense days in Spain. If Arsenal refuse to pay close to £80m and Newcastle hold out for an astronomical figure, the 28-year-old may have no choice but to knuckle down at St James' Park.
So far, Bruno has shown no signs of causing issues like Alexander Isak did last summer when he refused to train. Howe discussed Bruno's return date and checked on the player's mindset after a summer of speculation.
Lukas Hornicek Situation
The 24-year-old goalkeeper emerged as a possible target on Sunday night. Hornicek, who stands at 6ft 6in, kept 24 clean sheets for SC Braga last season. Talk of a progressed deal was premature; Newcastle are aware of the Czech international but have not made an official bid. His release clause is £29.5m, and Newcastle would have no issue paying that fee if they decided to pursue him.
Franculino Dju Rumours
Newcastle have been linked with the 22-year-old FC Midtjylland forward, whose price tag ranges from £21m to £40m. He has been linked with Bayern Munich and Everton. However, Chronicle Live was told by those close to the player that Newcastle have not made a move. While he has been on the radar, Newcastle have focused on other positions first.
