Bruno Guimaraes has reportedly informed Newcastle United's hierarchy that he wishes to leave the club and join Arsenal, according to The Athletic's David Ornstein. The Gunners have intensified their pursuit of the 28-year-old Brazil international and are prepared to offer up to £60 million to secure his signature.
Arsenal's renewed push for Guimaraes
Arsenal have made clear to their Premier League rivals that they are ready to spend heavily on Guimaraes, who has been a key target for Mikel Arteta's side. The Athletic reports that the north London club have 'stepped up' their efforts, though there has been no direct contact between Arsenal and Newcastle since an earlier verbal offer was rejected in June. That offer fell below the £60 million figure Arsenal are now believed to be willing to pay.
Newcastle have already lost one midfielder to north London this summer, with Sandro Tonali completing a move to Tottenham in a deal that could reach £100 million. Guimaraes now appears set to follow suit, with the player himself pushing for a transfer to the Emirates Stadium.
Transfer context and competition
Guimaraes has been a standout performer for Newcastle since joining from Lyon in January 2022, helping the club qualify for the Champions League. However, with Newcastle facing financial fair play constraints, they may be forced to sell if Arsenal meet their valuation. The £60 million offer would represent a significant profit on the £40 million Newcastle paid for the midfielder.
Arsenal have been active in the transfer market this summer, but a move for Guimaraes would be their most high-profile signing. The Gunners are also linked with other midfield targets, but Guimaraes is believed to be their priority.
According to Ornstein, the player has made his desire to join Arsenal clear to Newcastle officials, putting pressure on the Magpies to negotiate. No formal bid has been submitted yet, but Arsenal are expected to formalise their interest in the coming days.
This development comes amid a busy summer of transfer activity in the Premier League, with Liverpool also reportedly interested in Guimaraes. However, Arsenal appear to hold the advantage given the player's preference.
