'Mystery deal is close' - Sources reveal update on Bruno Guimaraes replacement at Newcastle

Matthias Jaissle's first action as Newcastle United manager will be to replace Arsenal-bound Bruno Guimaraes this summer.

The 38-year-old has joined a sinking ship at St James' Park, with Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Eddie Howe all jumping overboard.

Guimaraes is said to be on the verge of a £75million move to the Emirates Stadium, finally getting his wish to leave Newcastle in a professional fashion.

Newcastle's squad has been ripped apart over the last few weeks, and signing new reinforcements in the middle of the park will be critical.

Sean Steur, 18, and Aladji Bamba, 20, have both been signed in the position, but the duo have a combined 51 senior appearances.

Supporters are seriously worried about the idea of relegation in 2026-27, but those behind the scenes are working hard to ensure that doesn't happen.

Matthias Jaissle's first signing could be 'close'

In fact, via iNews (5 August), sources have played down links to names that have emerged in recent days, such as Borussia Dortmund's Felix Nmecha.

It is suggested this update from sources raises the possibility that a "mystery deal is close to completion," though it is unknown who this could be.

Most of Newcastle's deals so far have been youngters with "high ceilings," with a priority to lower the wage bill. But that won't save the Magpies from relegation.

Signing more midfielders will be absolutely key if Jaissle is to experience a positive first campaign in England, and this is an exciting update on the situation.

Understandably, supporters are nervous ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, but there is still plenty of time for business to be done before the window slams shut.

Who could Newcastle's 'mystery' signing be?

Nmecha has been heavily linked this summer, but it doesn't appear that the German international is staying put at Signal Iduna Park.

Real Sociedad's Luka Sucic has also been discussed, even more so after a fans spotted some interesting private plane bookings for the midfielder who featured under Jaissle at RB Salzburg.

The Magpies should be able to splash quite a bit of cash thanks to the big-name exits so far this summer, but PIF have taken a back seat in recent months.

New concerns have been raised over Newcastle's ownership and whether they still have their heart in the club, and this summer's window will certainly prove if they do or not.