Man Utd open talks to sign Bruno Guimaraes

Manchester United have opened informal talks with Bruno Guimaraes’ representatives ahead of a potential pursuit this summer, according to reports in Spain.

The Red Devils are actively searching for at least one new central midfielder following confirmation that Casemiro will depart when his contract expires in July, and they have shortlisted a number of Premier League stars as key targets.

It has widely been reported that Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) and Carlos Baleba (Brighton & Hove Albion) are Man Utd’s top three options, while they are interested in Wolverhampton Wanderers star Joao Gomes too.

In recent weeks, Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has also been earmarked as a potential signing for Man Utd, amid rumours he could leave St James’ Park this summer, while the 13-time Premier League champions have now added his club team-mate Guimaraes to their shortlist.

That is according to a report from Spanish publication AS, who claim that Man Utd have initiated “informal contact” with the entourages of both Tonali and Guimaraes. Casemiro has even recommended the signing of the latter, as per the report.

It’s understood that nothing has yet been finalised, while Newcastle will reportedly only permit one of their star midfielders to depart the club ahead of the 2026-27 season as they look to mount a charge for European football next term.

Guimaraes, who was appointed as Newcastle’s captain in August 2024, has scored nine goals and provided five assists in 23 Premier League matches so far this season, but he has missed the Magpies’ last five fixtures across all competitions with a hamstring injury.

Man Utd to prioritise Elliot Anderson

While Guimaraes has emerged as a potential summer target for Man Utd, AS have confirmed that Anderson remains the club’s preferred replacement for Casemiro.

The England international has enjoyed an extremely successful 12 months and the Man Utd hierarchy view him as the perfect candidate to partner compatriot Kobbie Mainoo in midfield at Old Trafford next season.

However, the Red Devils may be forced to sign a second central midfielder this summer if Manuel Ugarte departs the club. The Uruguayan has only started seven Premier League matches so far this season and he has featured for just 29 minutes since the interim appointment of Michael Carrick in January.

Several clubs across Europe are understood to be monitoring his situation closely and Man Utd are reportedly ready to sanction a sale if they receive a suitable offer.

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