Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes addressed the interest shown by Manchester City and Pep Guardiola during the latest international break claiming to be an "idol" in Tyneside and sounding committed to the Magpies.

Speaking to Globo in Brazil, the 25-year-old midfielder revealed details of past discussions and the admiration shown by Guardiola but clarified his focus remains solely on leading Newcastle.

"I believe that at my club I am an idol, and I have a lot of respect," Guimaraes said. "I am the captain of Newcastle, and it is something that if you had asked me three years ago, my biggest dream would have been to play in the Premier League.

"Playing, being an idol, being captain is something wonderful. I really like Newcastle."

Reports of Manchester City's interest surfaced last summer, particularly after it was revealed that Guimaraes' contract included a £100 million release clause that expired at the end of June.

Guimaraes acknowledged the interest, noting that it was a testament to his performances at Newcastle.

"Of course, having Manchester City's interest shows that I am at a high level," Bruno said. "But it was nothing more than interest.

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

Guardiola's admiration for Guimaraes has been no secret, with the Manchester City manager previously describing him as "an exceptional holding midfielder" for his aggressive style and technical quality. Speculation about City's renewed interest grew after Rodri's ACL injury sidelined him for the season, but Guimaraes reiterated his commitment to Newcastle's project.

At the end of the day, however, it was going to be impossible for Man City to snatch him from Tyneside mid-season in the upcoming January transfer window.

Since joining Newcastle from Lyon for £33 million in January 2022, Guimaraes has been pivotal in the club's progress toward the brighter end of the Premier League spectrum.

Bruno might be flattered by the interest coming from Man City, but he made clear that he remains focused on helping Newcastle achieve success, stating, "It is wonderful to be admired, but my heart is here."

We'll see how that ages when we revisit this post in June and look at a future that might or might not, include Bruno in Newcastle's XI.