Liverpool are now ready to bid €100m (£87m) to sign Bruno Guimaraes as the Reds begin to explore Jude Bellingham alternatives.
The Newcastle No.39 has developed into one of Europe’s outstanding midfielders in recent years.
AS in Spain believe Liverpool are joined by Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain in the race to sign the Brazil international, although Newcastle have a plan up their sleeve.
What’s the story?
Well, everybody knows that Liverpool held a strong interest in Bellingham.
However – as detailed by Fabrizio Romano – the England international looks set to join Real Madrid, leaving Jürgen Klopp with no choice but to search for alternatives.
Bruno Guimaraes – who Jose Enrique described as “world class” on Twitter – appears to be the German’s preferred choice.
AS believe Liverpool view the South American as an ideal signing to kickstart the midfield overhaul at Anfield.
However, Newcastle are prepared to offer the Brazilian a significant pay rise in a bid to keep him on Tyneside, with the Magpies even willing to make him the highest paid player in their history.
While Bruno Guimaraes is happy at St James’ Park, it is said that he will wait until the end of the season until he discusses his future with Newcastle.
Liverpool have to qualify for Champions League if they want Bruno Guimaraes
Crucially, AS mention that Bruno Guimaraes wants to play in the Champions League next season.
Newcastle seem well placed to qualify for Europe’s greatest club competition as they sit third with three games remaining.
However, Liverpool are currently fifth, and will need to win all of their remaining games – while also hoping that Newcastle or Manchester United slip up – if they are to finish in the top four.
A deal for Bruno Guimaraes would be difficult even if the Reds qualify, so if they end up outside of the top four, they surely have no chance of signing Newcastle’s midfield maestro.
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