Speaking to the press in the last few moments, Eddie Howe has rubbished claims that Bruno Guimaraes could leave the club this summer.
Yesterday, reports in Spain claimed that the midfielder had been identified as Real Madrid’s top target to replace Casimero – who looks set to join Manchester United in the coming days.
However, Howe responded with “absolutely not” when asked if the Brazilian could leave over the final two weeks of the window, saying he is a big part of our future plans and a “brilliant lad” – who insisted on no “escape clause” when he joined in the midst of a relegation battle in January.
On incomings, the boss admitted that nothing was imminent as things stand, but said the club are working tirelessly behind the scenes – leaving him hopeful that at least one new attacker will arrive.
When quizzed on Watford’s Joao Pedro, Howe insisted he had “nothing” to add after the club had two bids rejected for the Brazilian forward this week.
Here’s what he’s had to say on all of the above, starting with his response to the Real Madrid rumours…
Howe when asked if Bruno Guimaraes could leave this summer:
“Absolutely not.
“We’re trying to build a squad to make the club successful over the next few years. We want to enhance the group, not take away our best players.
“Bruno is a brilliant lad who came here when the club was in a relegation battle with no conditions and no way out, no escape clause. He has been incredible.”
“I don’t mind the speculation (with Real Madrid). But Bruno has the ability to achieve special things – we need to give him platform to achieve those things here.“
Howe when asked if we are close to a transfer breakthrough:
“I’d love to change my answer to this… no, not currently.
“We’re still working hard behind the scenes to try and make something move in the market for us. No news imminently.
“How many [we will sign] is a difficult one because the market is so changeable. I’m hopeful we can add a player that can make a difference for us and that’s what we’ve been trying to do the whole of the window.
“Time is running out so hopefully something will drop.”
Howe when asked if there was anything he could add on Joao Pedro:
“Nothing.
“No intel, unfortunately.”
