Newcastle United’s midfield maestro Bruno Guimaraes has re-emerged as a prime target for Arsenal after the Gunners faced setbacks in their pursuit of another key midfield acquisition.
Mikel Arteta is actively seeking a successor to Thomas Partey, whose future at Arsenal seems uncertain with only 12 months left on his contract and a probable departure looming this summer.
Clubs from Saudi Arabia are reportedly keen on signing Partey, and Arsenal anticipates garnering £25 million from his transfer.
Initially, Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad was high on Arteta’s list of potential replacements for Partey. However, Zubimendi appears uninterested in a move to the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal had extended a contract offer to Zubimendi’s representatives, but the lack of response has led to growing frustration within the North London club, compelling them to shift their focus to other midfield options, with Guimaraes now being a top priority.
Reports from Football Transfers suggest that Arsenal is contemplating a cut-price bid for Guimaraes, largely due to Newcastle’s financial constraints.
The Magpies are keen to avoid sanctions for breaching the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations, a predicament that previously resulted in points deductions for Everton and Nottingham Forest in the 2023/24 season.
Guimaraes, who has a hefty £100 million release clause in his contract, might be available for a lower fee as Arsenal seeks to exploit Newcastle’s financial issues.
There are indications that Newcastle might be amenable to a deal under the release clause, paving the way for Arsenal to make a formal offer for the Brazilian midfielder.
Bruno Guimaraes is widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s elite midfielders. Since his £40 million move to Newcastle in 2022, he has racked up 107 appearances, netting 17 goals and providing 16 assists.
His contributions were pivotal in Newcastle’s impressive 2022/23 campaign, which saw them secure a Champions League spot and reach the League Cup final.
Despite a frustrating 2023/24 season, Guimaraes remains committed to Newcastle and does not intend to force a transfer.
The success of Arsenal’s pursuit of Guimaraes will ultimately hinge on the financial terms they propose and Newcastle’s overall transfer strategy, including whether they opt to sell other players to alleviate their financial woes.
