Alan Shearer has warned Arsenal that signing Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes will require a significant outlay, with the Magpies reportedly demanding £90 million for the Brazilian international. The warning comes after Guimaraes informed Newcastle of his desire to join the Premier League champions following Brazil's World Cup exit.
Arsenal's Midfield Reinforcement Plans
Mikel Arteta is seeking to strengthen his midfield options as Declan Rice, the club's record signing, was managed through the latter stages of last season due to back and hamstring issues. Thomas Tuchel also handled Rice carefully during the World Cup, and it remains uncertain whether the England international will be fit for the start of the new season. An extended break is likely regardless of injury concerns.
Newcastle's Financial Position
Newcastle endured a disappointing season, failing to qualify for Europe, which has forced the club to sell key players. Anthony Gordon has already moved to Barcelona, and Sandro Tonali is set to join Tottenham for a fee that could reach £100 million. Shearer believes that selling both Tonali and Guimaraes would reflect poorly on the club and anger fans.
Speaking to Betfair, Shearer said: 'I think he'll stay. I think it would be a really bad look for Newcastle if they sold Tonali and Guimaraes. And there'd be a lot of angry fans and rightly so. Because he's a very, very talented player and I think he's been great for Newcastle.'
Transfer Fee Demands
According to Brazilian outlet Globo, Newcastle are demanding £90 million for the 28-year-old, who has two years remaining on his contract. Arsenal have indicated they are prepared to offer £70 million for a player they have coveted since his breakthrough at Athletico Paranaense. The Gunners came close to signing Guimaraes when he left Lyon for the Premier League but were beaten by Newcastle's ambitious move.
Shearer added: 'I'd feel confident the club won't sell him and if Tonali was 100 mil then Bruno would be more than that if he was to go. Maybe this news is his agent trying to get a new deal out of Newcastle.'
Player's Desire to Join Arsenal
Guimaraes has played a key role in establishing Newcastle as a force during his four-year spell at St James' Park. While he will not agitate for a move, he has made no secret of his desire to join Arsenal and play under Mikel Arteta. The Gunners' interest in the midfielder dates back to his time in Brazil, and they view him as an ideal addition to their squad.
