By Jake Stokes,Lee Ryder

Copyright manchestereveningnews

Manchester City have been dealt a blow to their hopes of signing Bruno Guimaraes. The 27-year-old was briefly linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium before he joined Newcastle United from Olympique Lyonnais for £40m in January 2022. Since swapping the Groupama Stadium for St. James’ Park, Guimaraes has established himself as one of the leading midfielders in the Premier League . Last season, not only did the Brazil international help Eddie Howe’s side qualify for the Champions League, but he also lifted the club’s first trophy since 1969. Guimaraes reportedly caught Guardiola’s eye last season, and, according to our colleagues at the Chronicle , Newcastle rebuffed an approach from City for the Brazilian in the summer. The report claims that the discussions were quickly shut down, and a prolonged transfer saga was prevented. It’s said that the enquiry, delivered by intermediaries within the agent network, arrived in early June during the week-long transfer window prior to the FIFA Club World Cup . The Magpies dismissed the interest, with Guimaraes reportedly content on Tyneside and willing to engage in future contract discussions down the road. When Alexander Isak declined to feature for Howe’s side, setting his sights on Liverpool at the first hint of genuine interest, Guimaraes declared his allegiance to Newcastle. The Chronicle states that the midfielder told those close to him he was focused on the 2025/26 campaign ahead. So, City immediately turned their attention to Tijjani Reijnders at AC Milan. Eager to bolster their options in the middle of the park ahead of the Club World Cup, they quickly forked out £46.5m for the Dutch midfielder, who has since become a favourite of Guardiola’s. What was observed internally was that Bruno’s focus remained unwavering, with Isak essentially refusing to play to engineer his departure. The Brazilian has three years left on his Newcastle contract, and the Chronicle is reporting that an extension could be on the horizon. Discussing his future, Bruno said he remains fully committed to Newcastle and said: “I have never changed my mind and I still look to make history at this club. “We have been in the Champions League two times in the last three years, that is unbelievable for us. We have to keep that going. There is a big job for us to do here, and I want to be part of this team.” The Chronicle is also reporting Newcastle are looking to strengthen their scouting operation north of the border, with talent spotters examining all competitions, from the Scottish Premiership to Scottish Premier Sports Cup group fixtures and the lower divisions. However, the Magpues will soon face competition in Scotland as it’s been revealed that City have recently taken on new scouts to assess talent north of the border. Sign up to our Man City newsletter so you never miss an update from the Etihad Stadium this season.