Newcastle United has reportedly taken the initiative in the ongoing Bruno Guimaraes transfer saga after weeks of speculation linking the Magpies captain with a move to Arsenal.
Most, if not all, reports to date have consistently portrayed Arsenal as the driving force behind a potential deal, even if working in the shadows. Still, the latest update suggests Newcastle has now made the first direct move between the two clubs.
According to Sky Sports’ Keith Downie, Newcastle has contacted Arsenal to put
an end to this story, whether that means selling the player to Arsenal once and for all or knowing the Gunners were never that interested in a transfer after messing around through intermediaries.
“As I understand it, Newcastle have actually reached out to Arsenal and said, ‘Look, are you serious about this? Are you trying to sign this player because we’ve had nothing from you?'” Downie said.
Downie’s report says Newcastle has grown increasingly “frustrated” by the lack of formal communication from Arsenal despite Guimaraes having informed the Magpies that he wants to explore a move to the reigning champions.
“There are various reports out there saying Arsenal have made bids to Newcastle via intermediaries or middle-men,” Downie said. “But as we sit here this morning, Arsenal have not contacted Newcastle.”
Downie added that Newcastle values the Brazil international at more than €95 million (£80 million) and remains determined to keep him unless Arsenal submits an offer that reflects the club’s valuation.
“But Arsenal need to come to the table and show Newcastle the colour of their money,” Downie said.
This unexpected twist comes after weeks of reports suggesting Arsenal was pushing to sign Guimaraes, and it should finally move the middle with exactly one month for the start of the new Premier League season.
Newcastle has now effectively challenged the Gunners to formalize their interest, and the ball is publicly on Arsenal’s court.
