Arsenal’s pursuit of Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes has encountered significant complications, with Newcastle officials dismissing recent reports as “utter nonsense” according to statements made by co-owner Mehrdad Ghodoussi on social media.
Guimaraes has reportedly informed Newcastle of his desire to join the reigning Premier League champions, prompting a verbal offer made through intermediaries. However, this offer was swiftly rejected by Newcastle, who maintain that the Brazilian international is not for sale, particularly after already losing Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali this summer.
The situation escalated following a report in The Telegraph alleging that Arsenal were misled by intermediaries who suggested Guimaraes could be available for a fee of around £50 million (€59m). This figure was purportedly linked to a conversation with former Newcastle co-owner Amanda Staveley, who allegedly indicated Guimaraes might be attainable for that price should Newcastle fail to qualify for the Champions League. Staveley has vehemently denied the conversation ever took place.
Newcastle are now insisting they would only consider a sale if a bid exceeding €100m were to be submitted. The club feels the entire saga has been unnecessarily inflated due to the lack of direct communication from Arsenal, with all discussions to date occurring through third parties. This indirect approach has left Newcastle “flabbergasted” and “stunned” according to sources close to the club.
Arsenal are hesitant to meet Newcastle’s valuation for the 28-year-old, especially considering his age, but Guimaraes is reportedly keen on a move to North London to compete for major trophies. However, he is also mindful of maintaining a positive relationship with Newcastle and its supporters and will not actively push for a transfer unless a suitable offer is made. As it stands, a deal remains deadlocked, with no guarantee of a breakthrough in the coming weeks.
Guimaraes joined Newcastle from Lyon in January 2022 and has become a key figure in Eddie Howe’s midfield, contributing both defensively and offensively. His current market value, according to FootballTransfers, is estimated at €63.1 million.
