Bruno Guimaraes calls former Lyon teammate to Newcastle

Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes has revealed his hope that a close friend and former teammate could some day join him in England's northeast.

Brazilian international Guimaraes, of course, made the move to St. James' Park during the January transfer window.

And, after something of a slow start to life in Newcastle's colours, the 24-year-old has since exploded into life over recent weeks.

Three goals and an assist across his last four appearances have proven central to Eddie Howe's troops getting their campaign firmly back on track, to climb to the dizzying heights of the top half of the Premier League table.

Guimaraes' influence, though, in truth runs so much deeper, with the South American having looked the standout performer almost every time he has stepped foot on the pitch over the course of the last month.

In turn, it will no doubt excite the Newcastle faithful to hear of their new cult hero calling for a one-time midfield partner in crime to join him on Tyneside at some point in the near future.

Speaking in an interview with ESPN in his native Brazil on Friday, Guimaraes was drawn on recent speculation that the transfer team at St. James' are readying a fresh raid on Olympique Lyonnais, this time round for Lucas Paqueta.

Gifted technician Paqueta has proven something of a standout performer amid a difficult campaign for Lyon, racking up ten goals and seven assists from his attacking midfield berth.

And, evidently, Guimaraes, who spent the opening half of the season lining out alongside his fellow countryman at the Groupama Stadium, is of the opinion that Paqueta would prove an excellent addition to Newcastle's ranks.

“It’d be my dream. Paqueta is my best friend,” the Magpies standout began.

“We had a relationship, not only on the field, but we lived together all the time outside. Our wives together too. It was a brotherly relationship. We still talk every day. It would be really cool if he could come here, but I can’t do this [recruitment] job [alone].”

'In the clouds'

From here, Guimaraes was also keen to discuss his impressive start to life in the Premier League, with a particular emphasis on the warm welcome provided by Newcastle's supporters.

“Few clubs in England have a fanbase like Newcastle”, the midfielder continued.

“Playing against us at home is very difficult. I honestly didn’t expect so much and so fast.

“Where I go is crazy, madness, in a restaurant, in the stadium. I win a free-kick and the crowd goes ‘Bruno, Bruno’, so it’s something I hadn’t experienced yet.

“I was a great idol at Athletico, I think it’s the same level here. I’m in the clouds.”

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