Real Madrid are reportedly considering a shock summer move for Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes as an alternative to Jude Bellingham. 

The Magpies signed the Brazilian midfielder just over a year ago and he has been one of Eddie Howe’s best-performing players so far, so they will be keen to keep hold of him.

However, a club like Real Madrid could have the potential to lure Guimaraes away from St. James’ Park, so it will be interesting to see what happens this summer.

This is according to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, who claim that the Spanish giants are ready to launch an offer for the Newcastle star if they fail in their pursuit of Bellingham.

TEAMtalk reported last Friday that Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Madrid are all firmly in the race for Bellingham, so it remains to be seen where he will end up.

Dortmund reportedly want a huge fee of 150m (approx. £132.1m) to sanction a summer sale, though, so any potential suitors will have to put their money where their mouth is to get a deal over the line.

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Real Madrid could test Newcastle’s resolve this summer

With that in mind, Carlo Ancelotti has been looking at cheaper, alternative options and if these reports are to be believed, Guimaraes is on his list of targets.

However, with the Brazilian’s contract valid until 2026, Newcastle aren’t under any immediate pressure to sell, so the Spanish giants would likely have to offer a substantial fee to sign Guimaraes.

It’s no secret that the Tynesiders have plenty of money now, so they may keep their midfielder regardless. Saying that, there wouldn’t be much use in keeping an unhappy player if his head gets turned.

As mentioned, he has been a key player under Howe this season, making 25 appearances across all competitions, scoring four goals and making three assists in the process.

Guimaraes played a key role in helping Newcastle to reach the Carabao Cup final, which they lost 2-0 to Manchester United on Sunday, so Howe will be keen to keep him around to help his team challenge for more trophies in the future.

According to Transfermarkt, Newcastle value Guimaraes at £60m, but given their financial position, they would probably demand even more than that this summer.

From Liverpool, Man City and Man Utd’s point of view, they will be glad to see Madrid looking at Bellingham alternatives, as it could mean they are considering pulling out of the race.

They will still have to pay a British record fee to sign the 19-year-old, though, so it will be interesting to see if one of the Premier League trio meet Dortmund’s price tag.

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The article Blow for Newcastle as Real Madrid ramp up interest in fan-favourite as Jude Bellingham alternative appeared first on Teamtalk.com.