BRUNO GUIMARAES has drawn a line under transfer talk linking him with a move away from Tyneside and reaffirmed the depth of his commitment to Newcastle United.

Guimaraes’ future has been the subject of considerable debate this summer, with a clause in his contract meaning Newcastle would have been powerless to prevent him leaving had a rival bid £100m prior to the end of June.

That clause has now lapsed, but that has not stopped the constant chatter over the Brazilian’s position, with Manchester City and Arsenal having been regularly linked with a possible move for his services.

Guimaraes rejoined the rest of Newcastle’s first-team squad last week, having been given an extended break after representing Brazil in the Copa America, and made his first pre-season appearance as he skippered the Magpies during the first half of yesterday’s 2-0 defeat to Japanese side Yokohama F. Marinos.

In the wake of the game, the midfielder took to social media to spell out his continued loyalty to Newcastle and attempt to silence the talk over his future.

Guimaraes wrote: “I’m very happy to be starting another season with this club that has done so much for me since my first day here. I’m glad to be back and more prepared than ever to have a brilliant season and to help Newcastle reach the highest possible position!

“Another dream has come true! Being the captain of this team is everything I've always dreamed of but never imagined! We're in this together, and I'm sure I'll be more dedicated than ever to this badge.”

Guimaraes remains an integral part of Newcastle’s plans for next season, with the St James’ Park hierarchy determined to hold on to both the Brazilian and star striker Alexander Isak despite outside interest in both players.

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The Magpies were forced to sell Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh earlier this summer in order to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability regulations, but are not under pressure to lose anyone else this summer.

“His (Guimaraes) release clause was never something on my mind,” said Eddie Howe, when quizzed on the situation last week. “I don’t think it was on his mind either, but of course it was there and I am really delighted it has passed with nothing happening.

“Now, we can focus on him being at Newcastle and having another season like he did last year. He is such an important player for us. He’s been a galvanising player for us for the last two years.”

As well as marking Guimaraes’ return to action after his summer international duty, yesterday’s friendly also saw summer signing Lloyd Kelly make his first appearance in a Newcastle shirt.

The defender, who joined as a free agent following his departure from Bournemouth, played for the first half, partnering Fabian Schar at centre-half, with Howe having been satisfied with his performance amid the sweltering heat of Tokyo.

“I thought he (Kelly) did well,” said Howe, whose side will complete their pre-season preparations with matches against Girona and Brest as part of the Sela Weekender next weekend. “(It was a ) composed debut. I was pleased for him.

“I was pleased with certain aspects (of the game). Certain individuals did very well, but team-wise, I thought we were off where we have been.”

Alexander Isak fell awkwardly on his shoulder in the first half of the game and was replaced at half-time, but Howe insists it was always his intention to replace the Swedish striker at that stage. Isak’s shoulder will be assessed once he is back on Tyneside, but the initial signs are positive.

“That (the substitution) was scheduled for him,” said Howe. “Of course, he went over on his shoulder early in the game. It was sore, but he was fine to carry on. We don't envisage any problems, but, of course, we need to check out the mechanism and how his shoulder is. But I think he looks okay.”