Manchester United reportedly holding advanced discussions to sign Newcastle skipper Bruno Guimaraes

Newcastles comprehensive exit from the Champions League against Barcelona appears to have opened the door for the Brazilian playmakers potential exit, as Manchester United eye the 28 year old to step into the shoes of Casemiro, who has confirmed his departure from the club.

Casemiro himself has endorsed Guimaraes as the perfect replacement, highlighting his expertise and command on the pitch, sources close to the matter reveal.

Early discussions indicated that shared enthusiasm might facilitate a swift deal. Yet, Real Madrids unexpected interest in the player could dramatically change the situation.

The Spanish giants have coveted Guimaraes for years, stretching back to Carlo Ancelottis time at the helm. The Italian manager proposed him three years prior as a future option for Luka Modric and Toni Kroos in the heart of Reals engine room, with the transfer nearly materialising.

The intended transfer, set for the summer of 2022, fell apart after Newcastle lodged an offer approaching 50 million euros in January 2022 to bring him from Lyon, thwarting Reals plans and landing him in the north east of England.

Now, four years later, Real are keeping a keen eye on Guimaraes amid Eduardo Camavingas impending exit and their quest for a dominant figure in midfield for the upcoming campaign.

Ancelotti, presently guiding Guimaraes with the Brazil squad, has once more supported the acquisition for his old team and ally Florentino Perez, stressing that the playmaker fits precisely what Real Madrid need right now.

As United press ahead to seal the transfer and Real re enter the fray, Guimaraes might soon be caught in the middle of a bidding battle ahead of the forthcoming transfer period.