Newcastle United’s long-running Bruno Guimaraes transfer saga has taken another significant turn as Arsenal has stepped up its pursuit of the club captain.
The Gunners have been linked with the Brazil international throughout the summer, but a recent report suggests that negotiations have now moved beyond informal, agent-led discussions as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his midfield before the new season.
According to The Times’ Gary Jacob, Arsenal has now opened formal talks with Newcastle over
a deal for Guimaraes after previously indicating through intermediaries that it would be willing to pay around €71 million (£60 million).
Jacob, however, reported that Newcastle continues to value the midfielder at approximately €89 million (£75 million), meaning Arsenal would need to increase its offer if it hopes to complete the transfer.
“Arsenal have begun talks with Newcastle United to sign the Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimarães,” Jacob wrote. “The Premier League champions had — until now — indicated to Newcastle through intermediaries that they would be willing to offer about £60million for the 28-year-old.”
The report doubles down on Guimaraes’ preference to move to North London this summer, with Newcastle potentially facing an important decision should Arsenal submit an offer close to its valuation during the next few days and weeks.
“Guimarães, who has two years remaining on his contract, wants to join Arsenal,” Jacob wrote. “Newcastle are likely to have a decision to make if Arsenal formally offer about £75million.”
Jacob also notes Arsenal’s improved financial position following a new sponsorship agreement with Emirates worth around €83 million (£70 million), a deal that could strengthen the club’s ability to fund a move for Guimaraes, and quickly.
The 28-year-old joined Newcastle from Lyon in January 2022 and has developed into one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders, scoring nine league goals and adding five assists last season despite missing two months through injury, but his age, along with his desire to go to reach greater heights, might end up with Newcastle selling him to bag the necessary cash they’ll need to navigate the new financial realities the club is facing.
