Liverpool hunting "really, really talented" Premier League star - but club desperate to keep him

Liverpool are tracking Newcastle midfielder ahead of a potential bid, according to new reports - but they may face an uphill battle to sign him.

Guimaraes has started for Eddie Howe's Magpies this season. He has scored two goals and provided two assists in nine Premier League appearances from central midfield.

But his all-round statistics are also impressive. After Newcastle's 5-2 win over Brentford in early October, Guimaraes ranked higher than any other midfielder in the division for tackles (4), ball carries (20), chances created (2.1) and through balls (1.1) per game.

That has piqued the interest of a number of major European sides.

The Brazilian is being eyed up by Real Madrid, with his qualities potentially making him an ideal replacement for Luka Modric when the Croatian eventually leaves Real or hangs up his boots.

Chelsea are also said to be in the race, whilst Liverpool are the latest club to be involved in rumours surrounding the midfielder.

Liverpool keen on Bruno Guimaraes?

According to Brazilian outlet TNT Sports, Liverpool are indeed keen on signing Guimaraes to bolster their midfield.

But whilst they face competition from other clubs, Newcastle are also desperate to ensure the 24-year-old remains at St James' Park.

He has a deal that runs until June 2026, having signed for the club back in January. But given his performances since arriving on Tyneside, the Magpies will likely propose improved terms.

Should he not agree to another contract, other clubs could very quickly table a contract offer for his services.

Club legend Alan Shearer will certainly not want the player to leave Newcastle.

Speaking on Match of the Day on August 6 after the Magpies' 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest, he said (quotes via Chronicle Live): "Newcastle have got a really, really talented player there and the fans love him. And rightly so."

It would be a major blow for Howe and his side if Guimaraes was to depart - with the Brazilian potentially extremely difficult to replace in the transfer market.