Bruno Guimaraes to Man Utd edges closer thanks to 'gentleman's agreement'

Cameron Smith

20 Mar 2026 04:39 CDT
3 min read

Manchester United target Bruno Guimaraes reportedly has a “gentleman’s agreement” to leave Newcastle United if they fail to qualify for the Champions League, although this may not be legally enforceable.

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The Brazil international has been heavily linked with a St James’ Park exit in recent days and rumours have suggested that his representatives are in advanced talks with Man Utd regarding a potential summer switch.

Michael Carrick’s side are in the market for at least one new central midfielder as they prepare for the imminent departure of Casemiro upon the expiration of his contract in July, and Guimaraes has been identified as an alternative to top targets Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba.

The Red Devils are also interested in Wolverhampton Wanderers star Joao Gomes and fellow Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, although Guimaraes has emerged as a viable option in recent days.

Despite this, Newcastle have no intention of selling the 27-year-old during the upcoming summer transfer window, as per talkSPORT.

Bruno Guimaraes transfer latest

Guimaraes has just over two years remaining on his current contract at Newcastle and Eddie Howe’s side are reportedly keen to extend his deal in order to ward off suitors.

Despite this, transfer expert Ben Jacobs has confirmed that Man Utd could be helped in their bid to sign Guimaraes this summer by an agreement made by Newcastle.

Speaking to The United Stand, Jacobs admitted: “There is, not that it’s always legally enforceable, a verbal gentleman’s agreement allowing Bruno Guimaraes to explore options for clubs that have Champions League football if Newcastle United don’t have Champions League football.”

Given the current UEFA coefficient, the Premier League is once again expected to be given five spots in the Champions League next season and Newcastle, who are ninth, are seven points behind Liverpool in fifth place.

As a result, they are currently set to miss out on qualification for Europe’s elite club competition, which could open the door for Guimaraes to depart if Newcastle honour their “gentleman’s agreement.”

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