NEWCASTLE are preparing for a fight to keep Bruno Guimaraes amid interest from Juventus, according to reports.
The Brazilian has been one of the club’s standout performers this season with the Magpies up to fourth in the table.
And his impressive form since his move from Lyon in January has a number of top clubs wanting to sign him such as Real Madrid, Chelsea and Barcelona.
Reports in Italy suggest that Juve are ready to join them in chasing the 24-year-old’s signature.
The Serie A side are reportedly willing to sell Weston McKennie to help finance the move and make room for Guimaraes’ potential arrival.
Under pressure Juventus boss Max Allegri is supposedly a huge fan of him.
READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
With big sides circling Newcastle still have no interest in letting him go.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that the Toon have clear plans that won’t change regarding Guimaraes.
He claims that Newcastle want to offer the midfielder a new long-term contract with an improved salary.
Rumours suggest they are willing to offer him a new £200,000-a-week deal to keep him at St James’ Park.
Most read in Football
FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
Manager Eddie Howe recently praised him after the 2-1 win at Tottenham – playing after he hadn’t slept in two days following the birth of his first child, Matteo.
Guimaraes, the eight-cap international, has made ten appearances in all competitions this season scoring twice and assisting twice.
He will be hoping to be part of the Brazil squad that heads to Qatar for the World Cup.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk