Newcastle United are now reported to have given the green light to sign the Premier League star, who manager Alan Shearer previously described as “fantastic”.
Eddie Howe pays tribute to ‘special’ Bruno Guimarães
It’s a new year, but when it comes to Eddie Howe, it’s still Bruno Guimarães. The Newcastle manager, along with the rest of the crowd at St James’ Park, watched as the Brazilian stole the show against Crystal Palace, scoring his seventh Premier League goal of the season.
Howe told reporters: “Bruno is a very special player, a special person and a special character.
“He’s very positive, he has great energy, and today he played the role of captain, because the game is always decided by the very important moments of the game. And he came up with big things for us, and he did it countless times.”
“Normally big games are decided by big players, but today was one of the biggest games for us in recent history, decided by big players.”
It’s the perfect start for Newcastle as they look to have a positive month on and off the pitch. Apart from the action, the January transfer window presents an ideal opportunity for PIF to finish up some unfinished business from the summer.
Tonali replacement: Newcastle make strong move for £23m ‘monster’
Eddie Howe could sign new signing Sandro Tonali if Newcastle United are successful in making a move this January.
The big question is whether that means a move for players like Keith Smit. The promising midfield star has attracted the attention of the Magpies, but he may have to wait until the summer to get a deal done.
Instead, their focus could shift back to the front lines. According to TeamTalk, Newcastle this month signed Jorgen Strand Larsen for a cut price of almost £40m, after he was said to have cost as much as £60m in the summer.
Newcastle get green light to sign Strand Larsen
Wolverhampton Wanderers are now reportedly willing to sell the forward for a reduced price before his value falls further with relegation to the Championship looking inevitable.
As a result, Newcastle are back in the race to secure his contract and finish what they started in the summer. It was no secret that just a few months ago those at St James’ Park were desperate to sign Strand-Larsen, and he has struggled in the Midlands ever since, but now they have the ideal opportunity.
There is no denying that the Norwegian has struggled this season after scoring 14 goals in his debut season, but Wolves’ situation has to be taken into account.
If Alan Shearer’s accolades are anything to go by from last season, Strand Larsen is certainly still worth pursuing. The Newcastle legend said after Wolves’ win over Ipswich last season. “He was a nuisance. I thought his hold-up play was great and his touch and control was great.”
It’s worth noting that Newcastle are finally completing their front line, with no more praise than on Tyneside.
