Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe is likely to make big-money Magpies signing Bruno Guimaraes the first name on the team-sheet next season, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The Tynesiders became the world's richest football club when the Saudi Arabia-based Public Investment Fund led a £305million takeover last October and Guimaraes was among their January signings.

What's the latest news involving Guimaraes?

Newcastle forked out £40million to seal defensive midfielder Guimaraes' arrival from French side Lyon in the winter transfer window.

Howe, who was appointed as the Magpies' boss last November, admitted the Brazilian was among his 'primary targets' and described Guimaraes as a 'hugely exciting talent' after getting the deal over the line.

Having been forced to bide his time after heading to St James' Park, the 24-year-old finally made his first start in the 2-1 win over Southampton on Thursday.

Guimaraes certainly made an impact as he netted the winner with an audacious backheel attempt, leading to praise from Howe.

The four-cap Brazil international was also handed a 7.8 match rating by WhoScored, with fellow January arrival Matt Targett being the only player on the pitch to boast a higher figure.

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What has Keith Downie said about Guimaraes?

While Guimaraes well and truly announced his move to the Premier League by scoring an eye-catching goal on his first start for Newcastle, Downie believes the best is yet to come from the defensive midfielder.

The Sky Sports reporter feels Howe will look to make Guimaraes a key player heading into the 2022/23 campaign.

It comes despite the former Lyon man having to be patient after switching to St James' Park.

Downie told GIVEMESPORT: "I do think we'll probably see the best of him next season. I think Howe will probably build a team around him."

Who could Guimaraes displace in Newcastle's midfield?

Guimaraes came into Newcastle's starting line-up against Southampton at the expense of Joelinton, who missed out through a thigh injury.

However, Joelinton has been converted into an attacking midfielder since Howe headed to St James' Park, with the Brazilian being taken under the ex-Bournemouth chief's wing.

Jonjo Shelvey has also been a key man for Howe, with him being handed the captain's armband on numerous occasions.

But, as things stand, Shelvey's £70,000-per-week Newcastle contract is due to expire at the end of next season and Guimaraes could move into the 30-year-old's role as the Magpies prepare for life without the former Liverpool man.