Liverpool’s pursuit of Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi has ended in disappointment, prompting the club to search for other midfield options. The Reds were eager to bring the 25-year-old playmaker to Anfield, but Zubimendi’s commitment to his boyhood club thwarted manager Arne Slot’s plans, leaving Liverpool without their primary midfield target.
As the transfer window edges closer to its conclusion, Liverpool faces increasing pressure to secure a new midfielder, particularly a number six. Despite being on the verge of completing a deal with Valencia for goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, as reported by Fabrizio Romano, the club has yet to finalize the signing of a new midfielder. With just eight days remaining before the window closes, the need to strengthen their midfield has become urgent.
Nevertheless, Liverpool’s hopes of bolstering their squad are not entirely dashed. According to a recent report from Fichajes, the club has identified an alternative target, though securing this player could prove as challenging as their failed attempt to sign Zubimendi. The report suggests that Arne Slot has turned his attention to Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes, a highly-rated midfielder who has become a key figure for the Magpies.
Securing Guimaraes, however, would be a complex and expensive undertaking. The Brazilian midfielder, who has been a standout performer since joining Newcastle from Lyon two-and-a-half years ago, is under contract for another four years. This gives Newcastle a strong negotiating position, especially given the timing of the potential transfer. With so little time left in the transfer window, Newcastle would likely demand a hefty fee for Guimaraes, with the deal potentially exceeding £100 million.
Guimaraes’s value has only increased since his arrival in the Premier League. His performances have been instrumental in Newcastle’s resurgence, and his contributions on the field have made him one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe. In his time at Newcastle, Guimaraes has made 108 appearances across all competitions, scoring 17 goals and providing 16 assists. Additionally, his international experience with Brazil, where he has earned 26 caps, adds to his appeal.
Given his importance to Newcastle and the substantial financial investment required, signing Guimaraes would be a significant challenge for Liverpool. However, as his stock continues to rise, it is likely that Newcastle will face increasing interest in their number 39 in future transfer windows. For Liverpool, the pursuit of Guimaraes represents both a potential solution to their midfield needs and a test of their willingness to meet the demands of a high-stakes transfer deal.
