Liverpool are reportedly still interested in signing Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes, despite the player being set to sign a new deal with the Magpies.
The 25-year-old was one of Newcastle's first marquee signings following their takeover by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, moving from Ligue 1 club Lyon in January 2022.
Guimaraes joined the Magpies during a relegation battle, however the Brazilian helped the club finish the 2021-22 term strongly, meaning that they ultimately placed 11th in the Premier League.
During the midfielder's first full campaign in England, Eddie Howe's side managed to secure a place in the Champions League for the first time in 20 years after finishing fourth in the top-flight standings.
According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano via his column in The Daily Briefing, Liverpool are still interested in signing Guimaraes even though he is preparing to agree fresh terms at Newcastle.
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The report claims that Jurgen Klopp and the club's hierarchy remain huge admirers of the Brazilian despite failing to lure him to Anfield in the summer transfer window.
Following the departures of the likes of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho to the riches of the Saudi Pro League, the Liverpool engine room was highlighted for a significant makeover ahead of the 2023-24 campaign.
The Merseysiders managed to recruit four midfielders for their first-team ranks before the window slammed shut, bringing in Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch.
It is understood that Liverpool are content with the players that they were able to bring to Anfield, however that satisfaction has not led to them cooling their interest in Guimaraes.
However, it is believed that the 25-year-old is close to signing a new contract at St James' Park, where his future would be committed until the summer of 2028.
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The report adds that there is a verbal agreement in place between Guimaraes and the club over the fresh terms, which would see the midfielder earn significantly more than he does on his current agreement with the Magpies.
A release clause worth in the region of £100m is said to be inserted into the contract, giving potential suitors such as Liverpool a feasible route to securing the services of Guimaraes in the future.
It is understood that the inclusion of a buy-out clause was a non-negotiable for the player, although the Brazilian is said to be happy with how things are progressing at Newcastle since arriving last year.
Guimaraes bagged a second-half goal as the Magpies demolished Sheffield United 8-0 in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, with the visit of Manchester City in the EFL Cup next on the agenda for Howe's side.
Carter White
