Reports indicate that discussions regarding Bruno Guimaraes’ future are ongoing, with intermediaries playing a key role. Sources from Newcastle have stated that there has been no direct contact, official bids, or offers from Arsenal concerning the midfielder. Despite this, some reports have suggested that the two sides had opened talks.
It is understood that Guimaraes has expressed to Newcastle his desire to leave this summer. He is reportedly seeking an opportunity to compete for significant honours, with Arsenal identified as his preferred destination. Arsenal is also said to be interested in the player.
Transfer valuations and player movements
The valuation of the midfielder, who will turn 29 in November and whose contract is set to expire in less than two years, is reportedly lower from Arsenal’s perspective compared to Newcastle’s. Newcastle has previously seen players like Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali depart, which has reportedly helped in balancing their finances. This situation suggests that the pressure to sell Guimaraes might not be as high as it could have been.
Newcastle has also been active in securing midfield talent, having signed Sean Steur. Additionally, Botafogo’s Danilo, who previously played for Nottingham Forest, is reportedly under consideration. For Arsenal, after missing out on Morgan Rogers, for whom Chelsea reportedly agreed a £117 million transfer, there is a perceived pressure to secure other key targets such as Guimaraes, especially given the player’s reported interest in a move to North London.
However, Arsenal is understood to be firm on its player valuations, which was a factor in the Rogers deal not materialising. This stance allowed Chelsea to proceed with the acquisition. The situation surrounding Guimaraes is expected to continue throughout the summer unless there are significant developments.
Sporting director’s activity and other targets
Andrea Berta, Arsenal’s sporting director, is leading the club’s transfer activities this summer. Intermediaries have been crucial in facilitating discussions for potential targets, with limited direct contact from Berta or other Arsenal officials. Arsenal has already secured Piero Hincapie, an Ecuadorian international whose move was pre-agreed, and goalkeeper Illan Meslier, who joined as a free agent.
Christos Tzolis is anticipated to join Arsenal this week, with reports indicating he is in North London to finalise a £34 million move from Club Brugge. Tzolis is reportedly seen as a successor to Leandro Trossard, who is expected to join Besiktas, though the club is still seeking a higher-calibre winger. Other players on Arsenal’s radar include Yan Diomande and Bradley Barcola.
According to reports, Arsenal is also exploring a move for Nico Williams. The Athletic Bilbao player recently contributed to Spain’s World Cup victory by assisting Ferran Torres’ winning goal in the final. Williams’ contract with Athletic reportedly includes a release clause. Arsenal’s interest in the player is long-standing, and Berta has reportedly made contact to assess the feasibility of a summer transfer. Williams is said to be open to a move to the Premier League should he decide on a new chapter.
Meanwhile, reports suggest Arsenal is preparing to make a new offer for Guimaraes. Two previous proposals for Guimaraes, one verbal and another via intermediaries, were reportedly rejected by Newcastle. A third bid is considered likely. Guimaraes is reportedly determined to leave Newcastle. While some reports suggest a sum could bring Newcastle to the negotiating table, other figures point to a higher sum. Newcastle currently maintains that Guimaraes is not for sale.
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Source: football.london
Harry Loxley is a Senior Football Correspondent at NewsGB.org. He spent his early career reporting East Midlands football. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Derby and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Derby, he watches non-league and runs a fan podcast. “Good football writing follows the people, not just the points.”