Bruno Guimaraes to Man City? 'We're talking about the world's richest club'
Newcastle United will not be pressured into selling their best players despite reports linking Bruno Guimaraes with a move to Man City.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, who remains well-connected within the game, explained that Newcastle, "the richest club in the world", have no intention of selling the 27-year-old.
This comes after Football Insider revealed on 22 November that the midfielder's £100million release clause has been removed from his contract amid growing interest.
Sources say Newcastle are highly unlikely to entertain talks over his exit, particularly in the January transfer window, as he remains a crucial part of Eddie Howe's side.
However, following the potentially season-ending injury to Rodri, City are exploring their options to strengthen their midfield in January.
Football Insider revealed earlier this month that the club are prioritising a move to sign a new midfielder given increasing concerns about further injuries.
Now, Robinson has claimed the likes of Mateo Kovacic, Ilkay Gundogan, John Stones and Rico Lewis should provide ample cover in Rodri's position, and City won't rush into a signing.
Newcastle won't be pressured into Bruno Guimaraes sale amid Man City interest
City have been linked with a move for Guimaraes for years now, and their long-standing interest has grown amid concerns about their strength in midfield.
However, a January move looks unlikely despite their desire to add a big-name signing in the middle, and Robinson has insisted that the strength in depth Guardiola has at his disposal should be enough to cope with Rodri's absence.
"Bruno is the type of player that would fit the Rodri mould," he told Football Insider.
"Man City, with the strength in depth that they've got, should be able to cope without him.
"Kovacic has been playing in there, Gundogan can play there, John Stones can step up and fill in there, Rico Lewis can play in there.
"Is there a huge demand for them to rush into the market to sign a new defensive midfielder? Arguably not because of the quality they've got.
"Bruno Guimaraes does fit that mould, but we're talking about the richest club in the world.
"Why would they look to offload one of their best players? Why would they strengthen City?"
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