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Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has slammed Bruno Guimaraes and claimed the player went back on his word and signed for Newcastle United in January.

The 24-year-old was linked with the Magpies in the winter transfer window and they wrapped up a deal for the player on January 30. The defensive midfielder signed a four-and-a-half-year deal and arrived for a fee of €50.1m, with €8m in add-ons.

Guimaraes has yet to make his full debut for Newcastle but he has made two cameo appearances as a sub in the wins over Everton and Aston Villa.

The Brazilian was wanted by Arsenal and Juventus but he was convinced by Amanda Staveley’s Saudi-backed consortium. He has already bought into the “project” at St James’ Park and he is expecting big things on Tyneside.

“We are definitely going to be a club that is going to be a big power in world football,” he said after being unveiled

“This is an historic club with a great tradition and a beautiful history. I have no doubts about my decision to come to Newcastle.

“They were very up front and honest about it. They didn’t disguise that the main objective and challenge was remaining in the Premier League this season.

“But in the seasons coming, the objective is to be in the Champions League and eventually to win the Champions League.

“I believe in the project. I believe in everything they spoke to me about. And I am really happy to be a part of this project.”

Guimaraes departure at Lyon did not go down well with Lyon fans. Although they signed Romain Faivre and Tanguy Ndombele and had money left over, the supporters did not want their star man to leave.

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Aulas makes Guimaraes accusation

And now it transpires Aulas did not want the player to leave. It seems the player though pushed for a move. And when Newcastle made an offer the Ligue 1 side could not refuse the writing was on the wall.

Aulas has spoken L’Equipe, via Sport Witness, and, when asked about a new deal for Maxence Caqueret, he suggested Guimaraes went back on his word.

“We won’t extend Maxence Caqueret at any price, but we absolutely want him to stay,” said Aulas.

“He said he didn’t know if he was going to stay. But you shouldn’t rely on players’ statements: Bruno Guimaraes said he absolutely wanted to stay, and he left, and not only because of us.”

READ MORE: Newcastle given fresh hope of signing £45m difference-making midfielder in blockbuster summer deal

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