Bruno Guimaraes is set to rejoin Newcastle United for pre-season training on Friday, though his future at the club remains uncertain. Arsenal are attempting to negotiate a £70million deal for the midfielder as Mikel Arteta looks to add to his squad that won the Premier League last season.
Arsenal's pursuit and Newcastle's stance
The 28-year-old is a priority target for the Gunners, with the Brazil star receptive to the move. Newcastle are conscious of Guimaraes' position, and ChronicleLive has reported selling him for £70m as a 'non-starter'.
It is additionally reported that the Magpies are becoming increasingly exasperated with Arsenal's tactics, with no direct communication yet established between the two clubs. The North East outfit remain optimistic about retaining their star midfielder, though Eddie Howe's departure may now alter circumstances and suggest Newcastle have accepted losing Guimaraes.
Eddie Howe's comments
Speaking on Wednesday regarding whether Guimaraes would link up with the squad in La Manga for pre-season following his prolonged World Cup absence, Howe stated: "The details I don't actually know, but I don't see any reason why that wouldn't be the case [him being back on Friday]."
Howe also conceded on Wednesday night following Newcastle's 4-1 loss at Bristol City that the Guimaraes transfer rumours represent an unwelcome distraction. Whether Guimaraes opts to train within the next 24 hours remains to be seen, as Howe remarked: "Any distraction, if it's not healthy, is unhealthy. So, yeah [it would be negative for things to drag on], but we're not in control of that. And to some degree, I don't think Bruno's in control of that either."
Howe then introduced a fascinating element to the situation, referencing external 'forces' outside his remit that could affect the midfielder's circumstances. The 48-year-old stated: "What will be, will be. We can't control the forces that are at play here, we've just got to make sure that when Bruno comes back, we look after him and he trains well, which I'm sure he will do. And he makes a difference as he always has done."
When Chronicle Live pressed him on whether he had received any guarantees during their conversations, he continued: "We've spoken numerous times. Assurances? I don't think you can push too hard for those. I've said many times we want players who are committed, and Bruno has always been committed. His training performances and his game performances have been outstanding, every time he's worn the shirt, he's played with the fans by his side. I'd love to see that continue."
Contract details and transfer outlook
It is suggested that the Gunners have established a firm maximum price for Guimaraes and are refusing to exceed it despite their eagerness to acquire the midfielder. Nevertheless, they may have to stretch further for a player who still has two years left on his existing deal, but Newcastle have the option to prolong his contract by a further year, affording them some negotiating power.
