Real Madrid are planning to keep tabs on Bruno Guimaraes for the remainder of the 2022-2023 season, according to reports.
The LaLiga giants have earmarked the 25-year-old midfielder as an alternative option to Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham.
However, Real Madrid will face stiff competition to sign Guimaraes as several clubs have registered an interest in the Brazilian following his impressive spell at Newcastle.
Guimaraes joined Newcastle from Lyon in a £40million deal in January 2022 and went on to establish himself as a mainstay in the team.
The 25-year-old has scored eight goals in 34 appearances to help Newcastle challenge for a top four spot in the Premier League.
As it stands, Newcastle are currently sitting fifth in the table - just four points off fourth-place Tottenham.
The Magpies are aware that Guimaraes is central to their success and are trying to tie him down to a long-term contract at the club.
However, according Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid have earmarked Guimaraes as a potential target for the summer transfer window.
Real are still interested in signing Bellingham, but are said to be open to alternative options as the competition for the England midfielder's signature remains high.
They view Guimaraes as a worthwhile replacement for Casemiro after he left the LaLiga giants to join Manchester United.
Guimaraes could also replace Toni Kroos at Real Madrid - given his future in Spain remains up in the air.
However, Guimaraes seems happy at Newcastle, despite losing to United in the Carabao Cup final.
The 25-year-old took to social media after the game to write the following: 'That's football. Not always giving our best is enough. Let's keep walking our path in pursuit of Newcastle's success.
'With delivery, dedication and love for the project and fans were represent. Healing our wounds and moving forward in search of the top. For NUFC. For the fans.
'I'm proud but not happy. Because I'll never accept the defeat. I have no words for your support. Thank you so much.'
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