Newcastle United tied Bruno Guimaraes down to a new contract in October but that did little to quash transfer speculation

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.

Brazil superstar Rivaldo has backed Bruno Guimaraes to ditch Newcastle United for Manchester City this summer.

Speculation regarding the midfielder’s future has been rife throughout the season despite penning a bumper contract extension in October. His new deal has four years left to run but contains a £100million release clause - active until June 30.

Guimaraes has continued performing for Newcastle regardless of the off-field noise. Speaking after bagging a late winner at Fulham last month, the 26-year-old insisted he remains “happy” on Tyneside but dangled a carrot for potential suitors.

“I hope to stay much longer”, he said. “I am happy here. Let’s see what the future brings but I am happy. I hope to play much more for Newcastle United.”

Several European heavyweights are reportedly sniffing around Guimaraes ahead of the summer window. Premier League interest from Manchester City and Arsenal has been suggested, with Paris Saint-Germain another possible option.

His compatriot, legendary World Cup winner Rivaldo, believes he will join Pep Guardiola at the Etihad. The 52-year-old - who Sir Bobby Robson urged Barcelona to sign in 1997 before “moving upstairs” - claimed the lure of Man City will prove too much for the Toon midfielder.

“Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes has been linked with Arsenal and Manchester City,” Rivaldo told Betfair. “He's a great player and has been standing out this season.

“It's clear that nowadays everyone wants to play for Manchester City because they have Pep Guardiola and a very tight and harmonious team. I believe that if Guimaraes leaves Newcastle, he will choose to go to Manchester City.”