Reuniting Lyon duo would be dream come true
IT is a sight that Newcastle United fans will be desperate to see replicated on the hallowed turf of St James’ Park next season – for now they had to settle for a glimpse of Bruno Guimaraes and Lucas Paqueta having a kickabout in the Toon star’s back garden.
Sources close to the pair insisted it was just two pals “having fun” during some well-earned downtime.
But it will soon be time to start work again with Bruno bidding to finish the season as Newcastle’s top scorer, and Paqueta heading back to France for Lyon’s game against Clermont Foot in Ligue 1.
Nevertheless, Eddie Howe is aware of the impact of signing the Brazil international this summer and spoke about Bruno’s recommendation last Friday at his Press conference.
If United do decide to go for Paqueta, who is actually on Tyneside to celebrate Bruno’s girlfriend’s birthday, half of the battle is already effectively won.
Howe said last week: “I’m aware of Bruno’s relationship, not just with Lucas Paqueta but many of his ex-players.
“Certainly, it helps to have players play at the very highest level because those relationships and opinions can be very valuable.”
The South American is already thinking about Newcastle and has been impressed greatly with the fans, attending a handful of games this season.
In short, he knows what he’s walking into and while grainy images of him playing football in the city have wowed fans, the crunch moment will be actually getting Lyon to accept a bid.
Lyon’s last valuation for Lucas was said to be £58million with Arsenal and Juventus also lurking. The midfielder has three years left on his contract but wages will be the next hurdle.
A report in France suggested Paqueta is eyeing £180,000 per week which comes in above Newcastle’s projected wage budget as they look to keep finances in order.
But until the two parties get around the table for real, the possibility of him joining the Magpies remains a positive line for fans.
By the time he sees the reception he’s had via social media, the famous black-and-whites will certainly be at the forefront of his mind.
And that won’t do Newcastle’s chances of signing him any harm.