Manchester City suffer blow as top target has special Barcelona clause in current contract - Reports
Manchester City have suffered a major blow in their pursuit of Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, who reportedly has a Barcelona clause in his deal. As reported by CentreGoals, the Brazil international's contract with the Magpies contains a clause that could see him join Barca at a cheaper price.
As reported by Goal in October 2023, Barcelona enjoy the option to sign Guimaraes for just £60 million if they wish to. The Brazilian midfielder extended his deal at St. James' Park last year until the summer of 2028 but inserted a special clause for the Blaugrana.
Guimaraes was one of the first acquisitions made by Newcastle United after the club underwent the mega-money takeover by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. He joined the Tynesiders in a reported £40 million deal from Ligue 1 side Lyon and has been one of the best players for the Magpies since.
The midfield dynamo has so far contributed with 17 goals and 16 assists in 107 appearances for Newcastle United to date. Despite Eddie Howe's side enduring an underwhelming 2023-24 season, the 26-year-old impressed with seven goals and 10 assists in 50 appearances across competitions.
Guimaraes' future has been up in the air over the last few weeks with a host of clubs being strongly linked with the midfielder. Manchester City and Arsenal have both been named admirers of the Brazil international.
Newcastle United find themselves in a tricky situation as they need to sell one of their star players to comply with profit and sustainability rules. Guimaraes reportedly has a £100 million release clause in his deal which expires this month.
Barcelona certainly have a privilege if they wish to sign the Brazilian which puts Manchester City on the backfoot. However, the Blaugrana's financial struggles could mean that they are unlikely to be able to afford a move anyway.
Manchester City ready to offer Bernardo Silva to Barcelona in return for midfielder linked with Manchester United: Reports
Manchester City are reportedly set to initiate a swap deal with Barcelona involving Bernardo Silva and Frenkie de Jong. Silva has been a long-term target for the Blaugrana while De Jong has been widely linked with Manchester United in the past.
Barcelona previously agreed a deal with Manchester United for De Jong but the Dutchman snubbed a move. However, a move to Pep Guardiola's Manchester City could certainly tempt the midfielder.
Bernardo Silva made it clear on several occasions in the past that Barca is his dream destination. The Portugal international has a £50 million release clause in his deal and could be open to a move to Camp Nou. Manchester City are reportedly set to offer Silva as well as some cash to the Blaugrana for De Jong.