‘Don’t need’ - Man City given strong warning on £100m star that Newcastle United supporters will love

Bacary Sagna has told Manchester City they do not need to sign Newcastle United talisman Bruno Guimaraes this summer.

Various reports have linked the Brazilian with a big-money money to the Premier League champions. Pep Guardiola is understood to be a huge admirer and City may look to strengthen their midfield - especially if Kevin De Bruyne joins the Saudi Pro League.

Guimaraes was an ever-present for Newcastle last season, playing in 51 of 52 fixtures as they narrowly missed out on Conference League football. Many tipped European football to be the deciding factor on whether the 26-year-old remains at St James’ Park.

The midfielder only penned a bumper contract extension last summer, becoming the club’s highest-ever-paid player. But that £180,000 per week deal included a £100million release clause that is active until June 30.

Newcastle fans face an agonising wait over the coming weeks about whether their prized asset will stay on Tyneside next season. But former Man City defender Sagna believes Guardiola should avoid Guimaraes - and questioned how the Magpies could “justify” selling him.

"I don’t think that Manchester City need a player like Bruno," he told CoinPoker. “I think City are covered in the middle. I really respect the player - I think he has wonderful ability. He is such an important player for Newcastle, I can’t see how they could justify selling him, especially to another team in the Premier League.

"It’s really important that Newcastle hold on to their best players if they want to challenge the best team in the Premier League. I think he’s going to be a big part of Newcastle’s project for the next few years and is a player that they should be looking to build around, not sell. He can fulfil his ambitions with Newcastle if they continue to strengthen the squad."