Bruno Guimaraes will not have to pick a different shirt number at Arsenal, as his transfer from Newcastle edges closer to completion. The No39 shirt, which he has worn throughout his senior career, is currently vacant at the Emirates Stadium.
Transfer nearing completion
Arsenal have been linked with a move for the Newcastle captain all summer, making their first official bid on Monday in an attempt to end the transfer saga. While the Gunners' bid was rejected by the Magpies, The Athletic has reported that the two clubs are nearing a total agreement, with a desire among all parties to bring the situation to a close.
The deal is now on course for completion, with Guimaraes awaiting permission from Newcastle to undergo a medical and seal a move to the Premier League champions. It will not come as a surprise which shirt number the Brazilian is likely to request.
The significance of No39
Throughout his senior career at club level, Guimaraes has worn one particular number. After breaking into the first-team picture at Atletico Paranaense, he wore No39 and has done the same for both Lyon and Newcastle.
The No39 shirt is currently vacant at Arsenal, though only for a short period, as the previous incumbent was Harrison Dudziak, who was released by the club at the end of June. Other vacant senior shirt numbers at Arsenal right now include No15, No18, No19, No25, No26, No27 and No28, but none will appeal to Guimaraes given his special connection to the No39.
Guimaraes on his 'magical' number
In his article for The Players' Tribune, written in February 2023, the Brazilian said: "The number tells a story more beautiful than words can say. 39. I know people think it's a weird number for a footballer. But for me 39 is special — no, it's more than that. It's magical. The number 39 gave me everything in life. It got me here to Newcastle. It fed me, clothed me, and paid for three-hour bus rides to pursue my dream. #039 was the dispatch number of my father's taxi in Rio de Janeiro."
