EDDIE HOWE has ruled out any prospect of Real Madrid being able to prise Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United this summer.

Guimaraes has made a huge impression since joining the Magpies from Lyon in January, with his performances understandably attracting the attention of some of the biggest clubs in Europe.

Reports in the Spanish press emerged this week suggesting Real Madrid were lining up a move for the 24-year-old, who is contracted to St James’ Park until the summer of 2026.

Real have reportedly identified Guimaraes as a potential replacement for his fellow Brazilian, Casemiro, who is on the brink of joining Manchester United in a £60m move, but Howe is adamant he will not be losing one of his side’s star performers.

Newcastle’s ownership position means they are not under any financial pressure to sell anyone, and Howe is adamant Guimaraes will be going nowhere this summer.

“We’re trying to build a squad here that we feel can take the club to be successful over the next few years,” said the Magpies head coach. “And we want to build that squad and enhance the group – not take away our best players.

“I think every footballer has different aims and ambitions. I am sure Bruno has huge aims and ambitions going forward in his career.

“And I really embrace that because he needs to have, as he has the ability to achieve special things. I think we have to give him a platform and an opportunity to achieve those aims here. That’s going to be important for us.”

Howe remains keen to add two more first-team players to the squad before the transfer window closes, and claims January’s swoop for Guimaraes is indicative of the type of deals the Magpies will be looking to target as they continue to grow.

While the midfielder was already an established international when Newcastle came calling, his career was still at a point where there was considerable scope for development and improvement.

“If there is another Bruno, please let us know,” said Howe. “They don’t grow on trees, let me tell you, that was an incredible piece of business really. Not just as a footballer, you have to consider the person as well.

“Bruno is a brilliant lad who came here when the club was in a relegation battle with no conditions, and no way out, no escape clause. He wanted to fight, and that showed real human qualities. He was all in from day one, and that is reflected in how well he’s done here.”