Newcastle boss Eddie Howe says he wants to build a team around Bruno Guimaraes after it emerged the Brazil midfielder's £100m release clause expires this summer.
Guimaraes, 26, has been one of Newcastle's standout players this season and has been linked with Manchester City and Arsenal.
He signed a new five-year contract in October 2023, having impressed following a move from Lyon in January 2022.
Howe wants Guimaraes to stay but admitted Newcastle were "not in control" because of the clause, which expires at the end of June.
"Having that [release clause] was well planned and structured by the club," said Howe on Friday.