- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
When fully fit, Newcastle United have one of the best midfields in the entire Premier League
Bruno Guimaraes is one of the most highly regarded players in Europe, while Joelinton has become a fan favourite at Newcastle United in recent seasons too.
Lewis Miley has enjoyed a breakout campaign too, before his recent injury, and Newcastle intend to keep their midfield as strong as possible.
In addition to a desire to keep Guimaraes long-term, HITC understands Newcastle are close to agreeing new contract with one of his teammates.
Joelinton stance on new Newcastle United contract
There is some good news for Newcastle supporters. HITC understands that Joelinton is close to finalising a new deal at the Premier League club after fresh talks reached a breakthrough.
As HITC revealed in January, talks had broken down between the player’s representatives and Newcastle.
However, lines of communication remained open, and there was a renewed effort in March to get a deal done. And, things have gone well.
Steve Nickson key to Joelinton deal
Sources have told HITC that chief scout Steve Nickson, who has stepped in to help oversee some of the duties of former sporting director Dan Ashworth, as he is on gardening leave after revealing his ambition to join Manchester United, has taken a prominent role in the talks.
Joelinton’s current deal is due to expire in 2025 and Newcastle were facing the prospect of selling the £40 million (Sky Sports) Brazilian midfielder this summer if a new deal had not been agreed.
But, now the new deal, believed to be for four years, is close to being signed.
The 27-year-old Brazil international midfielder has scored 18 goals and given seven assists in 152 appearances in the Premier League so far in his career.
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