Newcastle United are facing a potential midfield exodus this summer as London clubs circle their two star players. Tottenham Hotspur have had an £80 million bid for Sandro Tonali rejected, while Arsenal's verbal offer of £55 million for Bruno Guimaraes has been swiftly dismissed. The Magpies have already sold Anthony Gordon and are bracing for further departures, though they insist Guimaraes is not for sale.
Arsenal's Long Pursuit of Guimaraes
Arsenal have monitored Bruno Guimaraes for over five years, dating back to his time in Brazil and France. Despite interest, the club never made a firm move, and the 28-year-old joined Newcastle instead. Now, with Arsenal's midfield needing reinforcement, a bid has been submitted—but at £55 million, it falls well short of Newcastle's valuation. According to Arsenal writer Tom Canton, “Guimaraes at £55m would have been a steal, and that’s why the suggestion has been knocked back so swiftly.” The Gunners may return with an improved offer, as the Brazilian is seen as a player who could help secure back-to-back Premier League titles.
Tottenham's Ambition for Tonali
Tottenham are determined to make a statement after a disappointing season. Manager Roberto De Zerbi is a strong advocate for Sandro Tonali, viewing the 26-year-old as the key to elevating his midfield. Spurs have opened up their wage structure to compete for top talent, but they must meet Newcastle's £100 million asking price. Spurs writer Alasdair Gold noted, “De Zerbi would not have leapt off his sun lounger in April, facing the very real threat of relegation, if the project described to him was not an ambitious one.” Tottenham have let similar deals slip in the past, and this transfer represents a test of their new football-first direction.
Newcastle's Stance and Financial Position
Newcastle are in a strong financial position after banking nearly £200 million in player sales over the last 12 months. They are under no pressure to sell both midfielders, but there is a general acceptance that Tonali will leave if the £100 million fee is met. The club has been clear for weeks that this is the price and they will not budge. Regarding Guimaraes, the message is simple: not for sale. However, with only two years left on his contract, his representatives may be using interest to negotiate a better extension. Neither player has agitated for a move, unlike Alexander Isak, but agent-driven talk could lead to movement on Tonali before pre-season training resumes.
What Happens Next
The coming fortnight could be decisive. Newcastle want to avoid a saga similar to the Isak situation, so they may facilitate Tonali's departure if the right offer arrives. Arsenal and Tottenham both have work to do to secure their targets, with the clock ticking on the transfer window. For now, the battle between Newcastle and North London continues.
