Newcastle United have informed Arsenal that Bruno Guimaraes is considered 'priceless' and will not be sold this summer, even as the Magpies explore alternatives including Borussia Dortmund's Felix Nmecha. The Premier League champions have had a verbal offer for the Brazilian midfielder dismissed, with Newcastle insisting their captain is not for sale.
Newcastle's Stance on Guimaraes
According to Mail Online, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is determined to keep Guimaraes, who has made 195 appearances since joining from Lyon in January 2022. The club have communicated that the 28-year-old is not available for transfer, though his representatives have reportedly held talks with both Arsenal and Newcastle. To secure his future, Newcastle plan to offer Guimaraes a new contract.
Despite their firm stance, Newcastle are not confident enough to forgo a contingency plan. The club have already sold Sandro Tonali to Tottenham for £100 million and Anthony Gordon earlier this summer, providing significant spending power.
Alternative Targets: Nmecha and Camara
Newcastle have held conversations over Felix Nmecha, a target also linked with Manchester United. The Borussia Dortmund midfielder has an asking price in excess of £100 million. Nmecha spent 14 years at Manchester City's academy, where he was a key figure for Red Devils director of football Jason Wilcox.
Monaco's Lamine Camara was also considered but that move appears unlikely. Newcastle's search for midfield reinforcements comes after Tonali's departure and the need to strengthen their squad.
Arsenal's Transfer Plans
Arsenal are looking to improve their squad ahead of their Premier League title defence. While Guimaraes remains a target, the club are also prioritising a left-sided attacker. Mikel Arteta's side have been strongly linked with Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers and PSG's Bradley Barcola.
Guimaraes joined Newcastle in a £40 million deal in January 2022, beating Arsenal to the signing. The Brazilian's camp appreciated Newcastle's decisive action during a World Cup year. He has since become a key figure, helping Newcastle win the Carabao Cup—their first major domestic trophy in 70 years.
