Mikel Merino has declared that Arsenal now possess "the best midfield in football" following the £75million signing of Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United.
Guimaraes adds to star-studded midfield
The Premier League champions moved quickly to secure Guimaraes, who had expressed a desire to leave St James' Park. The Brazilian had been a key figure for Newcastle since joining from Lyon in 2022, helping them win the Carabao Cup in 2025 and earning recognition as one of the Premier League's top midfielders.
Guimaraes joins an Arsenal squad that already includes Spain's World Cup-winning duo Merino and Martin Zubimendi, as well as Declan Rice. Myles Lewis-Skelly, who has been linked with a move away, is also competing for minutes in midfield.
Merino praises new signing and squad depth
Merino, whose versatility makes him a valuable asset, welcomed Guimaraes warmly. "He has proved throughout these years how good he is at Newcastle. A lot of composure, technical ability, a lot of defensive effort as well. So it's a very good signing. A top player, but we have many of those in this team. So everyone that comes to help the team is welcome," he said.
When asked about the strength of Arsenal's midfield after the latest addition, Merino replied: "Honestly, it's unreal. Probably the best midfield in football. The amount of quality that we have there, with every player that can come on the pitch and make a good shift. It's great."
He added: "That's good for the team. That's good for the squad. It raises everyone's level because if you have a bad day, the one that is close to you is going to do a great job. I think we have an amazing squad. The hunger is still there. Not because we won it last season, we're going to be happy with it."
Arsenal eye further signings
Guimaraes is Arsenal's biggest signing of the summer so far. Manager Mikel Arteta remains open to strengthening other areas, with Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa linked as defensive targets and Victor Osimhen mentioned as an attacking option.
