Arsenal are not expected to allocate additional funds to pursue Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes despite missing out on Morgan Rogers, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic FC. Chelsea have reached a club-record agreement with Aston Villa for Rogers, reportedly a fee of €137million (£117m).
Rogers had been identified as a key target for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, but the 23-year-old winger ultimately preferred a move to Chelsea and manager Xabi Alonso. Ornstein reports that Rogers’ valuation ultimately exceeded Arsenal’s expectations, allowing Chelsea to successfully hijack the deal.
While Arsenal are still seeking a flexible midfielder, Ornstein suggests the club is firm on its financial boundaries this summer. He stated on The Athletic FC Podcast that Arsenal had a valuation set for Guimaraes as well, and would only pursue him if he became available at that price. He added that the club demonstrated understanding of the situation with Rogers, indicating a willingness to move on without exceeding pre-determined spending limits.
Arsenal previously submitted a verbal offer of €70m (£60m) for Guimaraes through intermediaries, but Newcastle rejected the proposal, maintaining their stance that the 28-year-old is not for sale. Guimaraes has become a pivotal figure for Newcastle since joining from Lyon in January 2022, contributing 31 goals in 195 appearances and playing a key role in their 2025 Carabao Cup victory. He also represented Brazil at the recent World Cup.
Guimaraes currently has two years remaining on his contract with Newcastle, but Arsenal’s reluctance to increase their offer suggests they will explore alternative midfield options. This development potentially limits Arsenal’s midfield reinforcements this window, while solidifying Guimaraes’ position at Newcastle for the time being.
