Newcastle United pulled off one of the best deals of January by signing Bruno Guimaraes from Olympique Lyon.
The Brazilian midfielder was reportedly on the wish list of a number of top clubs across Europe. When reports of Newcastle’s initial interest in Guimaraes first emerged, not many fans really believed that a deal could be done.
However, Eddie Howe, PIF and co did everything they possibly could and got the deal over the line.
Guimaraes is viewed by almost everyone as an incredible signing but Duncan Castles has claimed on his Transfer Window Podcast that Newcastle’s staff have their doubts for this season.
Newcastle staff have doubts over how Bruno Guimaraes will adapt
The journalist said yesterday while talking about the Magpies’ transfer window: “There, they (Newcastle) found a club (Lyon) who was prepared to just take the money and let a player go who they think can make a long term difference.
“But, the briefing within the club is that they are not sure whether he will be able to adapt quick enough to the Premier League this season.
“What they need are players to come in and spark an immediate improvement in things.”
TBR View:
Guimaraes was undoubtedly one of the best midfielders in France. He went toe to toe and against the best in Ligue 1 and almost always came out on top.
The Premier League, however, is a completely different ball game.
Newcastle fans are right to be really exciting about the Brazilian but they shouldn’t judge him too early. He may set the league on fire from the get-go or he may struggle to find his feet until the start of next season. The latter is a very real possibility.
But, it is important to remember that Guimaraes is still only 24, doesn’t have a lot of experience at the highest level and before February 2020, he was still playing in the Brazilian top-flight.
Newcastle fans should be patient with Guimaraes as he really is a fantastic player and with time, he will come good.
