Arsenal handed Bruno Guimaraes boost as Newcastle change their transfer stance
Arsenal's hopes of securing Bruno Guimaraes have received a significant boost as Newcastle United have shifted their transfer stance on their captain. Having initially insisted the Brazilian midfielder was not for sale at any price, the Magpies are now engaged in direct talks with Arsenal over a potential deal. The clubs are in negotiations following Arsenal's opening approach, which was firmly rejected by Newcastle.
Newcastle's Dramatic U-turn
The circumstances surrounding Newcastle's change in position have become clear following a summer of significant upheaval at St James Park. The club have already sold Anthony Gordon to Barcelona for approximately 75 million and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham for 100 million. With Guimaraes edging closer to joining Arsenal, Newcastle are now actively searching for a midfield replacement rather than maintaining their previous stance that he was untouchable.
Reports indicate that Newcastle are ready to challenge Leeds for Inter Milan midfielder Petar Sucic, with the Magpies prepared to offer between 35 million and 40 million for his services. The 22-year-old made 50 appearances for Inter in all competitions last season, contributing four goals and four assists. Serie A champions Inter value the Croatian international at around 45 million and could use the competing interest to drive up the price.
The Guimaraes Situation
Arsenal are focused on bringing the 28-year-old to the Emirates Stadium to strengthen their midfield options. Guimaraes, who arrived at Newcastle from Lyon for 40 million in 2022, has become central to the club's plans, making 195 appearances and scoring 31 goals. His contract runs until the summer of 2028 with an additional option for a further year, though Newcastle's initial reluctance to sell has clearly softened following the departures of Gordon and Tonali.
Arsenal's opening valuation of Guimaraes was in the region of 70 million, while Newcastle are believed to be looking for more than 80 million. Speculation in recent days has intensified over an 80 million agreement, with reports suggesting Guimaraes could undergo a medical with Arsenal. The midfielder is keen to join Mikel Arteta's side and has reportedly been holding showdown talks to force his exit from Newcastle.
Recent events at Newcastle may have accelerated matters. Eddie Howe departed his role at St James Park last week, with reports suggesting the 48-year-old was under the impression that Guimaraes would eventually leave for Arsenal. Matthias Jaissle is expected to take the reins at Newcastle, though he has yet to be officially unveiled as manager. Guimaraes is currently en route to La Manga, where Newcastle's pre-season training camp is based, and is set for talks with Jaissle.
Arsenal's Summer Ambitions
The Gunners are pushing ahead with their transfer plans despite taking a cautious approach to recruitment thus far. Arteta has indicated the club will not remain idle, stating: "A lot is happening. We all know about the context of this transfer window. From ownership to the board, the sporting director and myself, we know that we want to take this club to a different level. That is going to require a better squad, better individuals."
Arsenal have made Christos Tzolis their only major signing of the summer, bringing the winger from Club Brugge for 34 million. The club have also strengthened in other areas, with Piero Hincapie's temporary spell becoming permanent through a 34.5 million purchase option activation, and former Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier joining on a free transfer. Beyond Guimaraes, Arsenal are also targeting Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior, though negotiations remain ongoing with the La Liga giants.