EDDIE Howe has stressed his desire to keep Bruno Guimaraes at Newcastle United amid ongoing contract talks with the star midfielder.

Guimaraes has been linked with Real Madrid during his time on Tyneside and although he only signed 18 months ago, Newcastle are keen to tie down the 25-year-old with a new and improved deal.

Guimaraes is known to be extremely happy at St James' Park, but quizzed on his contract situation in the United States this week, told reporters: "There is no news. I want to stay, but the doubt is ongoing. So, let’s see."

Despite Bruno's admission about "doubt", Howe isn't at all concerned about the situation and says the midfielder knows how highly he's valued.

“There is no doubt in my mind about his future,” said the head coach.

“We would love Bruno to extend his time with us for a long time.

“I’m not party to those talks every day. Those talks are ongoing and Bruno knows how we feel about him. He’s very happy here. We hope there’s solution to be found.”

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Guimaraes played all 90 minutes for Newcastle in the overnight victory against Brighton, with Elliot Anderson scoring a late double for the Magpies after Danny Welbeck had put Albion in front.

Howe said: "We need everyone fit so to play 90 minutes in this heat will do them the world of good.

"The players did very well to combat the weather and maintain our intensity."