Former Newcastle United co-owner Mehrdad Ghodoussi has hit back at a report claiming Arsenal felt they could sign Magpies' captain Bruno Guimaraes for £50m after a conversation with Amanda Staveley. The Telegraph reported that intermediaries informed Arsenal that Guimaraes could be prised away from St. James' Park for a bargain price this summer.
Report Claims Staveley Told Intermediaries £50m Fee
The report claimed former Newcastle United co-owner Staveley informed intermediaries that Guimaraes could be available for a fee of £50m after Eddie Howe's side failed to qualify for the Champions League. However, Staveley categorically denied that any such conversation took place, when approached by the Telegraph for comment. According to the Telegraph, "Staveley categorically denied the conversation took place when approached by Telegraph Sport."
Ghodoussi Brands Claims 'Utter Nonsense'
Staveley's husband, Ghodoussi, also took to social media to brandish the claims 'utter nonsense.' The couple departed St. James' Park in 2024. Newcastle United have made it clear this summer that it would take a fee in the region of £100m to sell the 28-year-old midfielder, and even then, they do not want to sell their captain.
Arsenal are big admirers of the Brazilian international, but the report claims they only became interested in doing a deal when they were informed of a £50m asking price. The Telegraph say that Guimaraes' representatives are claiming they had talks with Staveley, who said the club would listen to offers in that region if they missed out on Europe's elite competition.
Guimaraes' Contract and Stance
Guimaraes has reportedly told Newcastle he wants to move to the Premier League champions this summer, but will not force a move through, given his relationship with the club and Magpies' supporters. The 28-year-old is currently under contract for another two years and the club have an option to extend his deal for a further season. Newcastle have not received any official transfer approach from the Gunners. Newcastle insists there is no release clause inserted into Guimaraes' current Newcastle contract and that the skipper is not for sale.
