Manchester City is preparing a summer move for Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes.

According to TEAMtalk, Man City would supposedly take advantage of a "verbal pact" between the player and the Magpies that could allow him to leave for around £85 million if such an offer arrives at NUFC's table,

"Manchester City remain hopeful of signing Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimarães thanks to an existing 'verbal pact' between the player and the Magpies," TEAMtalk reported.

The Premier League champions have long been interested in Guimarães and see him as one of the league's best midfielders.

Guimarães' previous £100 million release clause expired last summer, but according to TEAMtalk, sources claim Newcastle privately agreed that the Brazilian could leave if a Champions League club bids around £85 million and Newcastle fails to qualify for the competition.

City remains the club showing the strongest interest in the 27-year-old, and if the Magpies fail to secure Champions League qualification while City clinches it, their chances of signing him improve.

"If Guardiola's side qualify for the Champions League themselves, then they will stand a good chance of prising Guimarães away from St James' Park," TEAMtalk reported.

Newcastle, however, is planning contract talks with Bruno to end the speculation. His current deal runs until 2028, and the club is determined to keep its key players.

Speaking in November, Guimarães acknowledged Guardiola's admiration of his game but downplayed any direct discussions about a transfer.

"I know that Guardiola likes my football, it is normal to have great coaches who admire your football," Bruno said. "We have spoken once, I praised his work, he praised my work, but it was nothing more than that."