Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes has informed his club he wants to join Arsenal, according to reporting from Sky Sports News. While Newcastle has not officially commented on the request, the club maintains that the Brazil international is not for sale and is not welcoming bids for the midfielder.
Arsenal’s Interest and Transfer Terms
Arsenal has not made formal contact with Newcastle United regarding the availability of the 28-year-old, according to Sky Sports News. However, reports indicate that the specific conditions of a potential deal have been explored through intermediaries.
Guimaraes is currently under contract at St James’ Park for two more years, with Newcastle holding an option to extend the deal through the summer of 2029. He originally joined the club from Lyon in January 2022 for a fee of £35m.
Newcastle’s Stance on the Captain’s Departure
Newcastle United is resisting the move, as the club insists Guimaraes is not for sale. Management is reportedly determined to avoid a repeat of the situation involving Alexander Isak, who forced a £130m transfer to Liverpool last summer after going on strike, according to Sky Sports News.
The club has already seen several high-profile departures recently. The sales of Anthony Gordon to Barcelona for £69.3m and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham for £100m generated approximately £169.3m. While these funds helped the club meet spending rules, leadership fears that losing Guimaraes would trigger another extensive rebuilding project.
Impact on Eddie Howe’s Squad
Manager Eddie Howe views Guimaraes as a cornerstone of the midfield. The Brazil international led the team to their first domestic trophy in 70 years when they won the Carabao Cup two seasons ago.
The urgency to retain the captain follows a difficult domestic campaign last season. According to Sky Sports News, Newcastle struggled to replace Isak, a factor that contributed to the club finishing 12th in the Premier League table.
Player Profile: Bruno Guimaraes at Newcastle
- Joined: January 2022 from Lyon (£35m)
- Role: Club Captain / Midfielder
- Key Achievement: Led team to Carabao Cup victory
- Contract Status: Two years remaining (option until 2029)
The standoff now rests between the player’s desire for a move to North London and Newcastle’s refusal to negotiate for their captain.
Keep reading