Mikel Arteta is prepared to pull out all the stops in his bid to land Bruno Guimaraes this summer. The Gunners have reportedly had a £55million offer for the Brazil star already knocked back this summer, but are unlikely to abandon their pursuit without a fight.
Midfield Boost Needed
Arsenal appear ready to boost their midfield options after Mikel Merino missed the majority of the 2025/26 season through injury. Guimaraes, currently on World Cup duty with Brazil, has seemingly emerged as a prime target for the north London club.
What's more, Arsenal would be able to hand the Magpies captain his preferred No. 39 shirt straight away should he make the move to the Emirates. While that may seem trivial on the surface, the gesture could carry considerable weight for Guimaraes.
Emotional Significance of No. 39
The former Lyon man has worn the No. 39 throughout his career as a tribute to his father, Dick. The number represents the call sign of the taxi his dad drove around Rio de Janeiro for more than 20 years.
Guimaraes maintains an incredibly strong bond with his father. The Brazilian's family relocated with him to the north-east following his 2022 switch from France to St. James' Park.
It has been over a decade since an Arsenal regular last wore the No. 39. Hector Bellerin wore the shirt during his 2014/15 campaign, and it has barely been seen at the Emirates Stadium since.
Harrison Dudziak was given the number last season but failed to make a first-team appearance for the club. It has already been confirmed that the 20-year-old midfielder will depart Arsenal this summer, making the shirt available once again.
Guimaraes' Career Tribute
Guimaraes has worn the No. 39 at virtually every club he has represented throughout his professional career. Beginning at Athletico Paranaense nearly a decade ago, he has maintained the tribute to his father at Lyon, Newcastle and potentially now Arsenal as well.
Coming off winning a first Premier League title in 20 years, it's evident the Gunners aren't becoming complacent as they aim to defend their crown. However, captain Martin Odegaard's spot in the starting XI has come under scrutiny after he was sidelined for much of the campaign.
Martin Zubimendi played in every league match on the road to securing the title, though he also attracted criticism at times. As it stands, Declan Rice may be the only midfielder universally beloved by the club's supporters.
In that respect, a move for Guimaraes makes considerable sense if the club is seeking to strengthen. Newcastle are said to be in a situation where they must sell to a certain extent to balance their finances, but may be especially reluctant to part with their captain.
