Newcastle United are increasingly concerned they may lose captain Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal following discussions involving the player’s representatives and agents with strong ties to the North London club. Arsenal saw a verbal bid of just under £45 million rejected last week, but are preparing a second offer for the 28-year-old midfielder, according to reports.
Guimaraes has impressed at the 2026 World Cup, registering four assists – second only to one other player in the tournament so far. He has two years remaining on his current contract at St James’ Park, but is reportedly considering his options after Newcastle failed to qualify for European competition last season. This consideration has been amplified by recent meetings between his representative, Alexis Malavolta, and ‘super agents’ Giuliano Bertolucci and Kia Joorabchian.
Newcastle have reportedly informed Arsenal that Guimaraes is not for sale, but the Gunners believe a bid of around £65 million could be enough to secure a deal. The Brazilian has been a key player for Newcastle since joining from Lyon in 2021 for a fee of €42 million, and his performances have consistently drawn praise. The club are already facing potential departures this summer, having recently sold Anthony Gordon and with Sandro Tonali likely to leave for approximately €100 million.
Newcastle are prepared to offer Guimaraes a new, long-term contract with improved terms, however, The Chronicle reports that the player’s ‘head has been turned’ by Arsenal’s interest. Malavolta’s agency is linked to Bertolucci, who previously facilitated the transfers of Gabriel Magalhaes and David Luiz to Arsenal. Joorabchian also has a long-standing relationship with the club and was involved in previous transfer business with former sporting director Edu Gaspar.
Arsenal have consistently shown interest in Guimaraes, even prior to his move to Newcastle, and appear confident of negotiating a deal despite Newcastle’s reluctance to begin talks. While Guimaraes’ contract does not include a release clause, discussions between the player and the club are expected to take place upon his return from the World Cup, potentially leading to a prolonged period of uncertainty for Newcastle throughout the summer transfer window.
