Bruno Guimaraes Future Uncertain as Arsenal Circle
While Newcastle United's immediate focus is on incoming transfers this month, fans remain anxious about Bruno Guimaraes' future. The Brazilian midfielder has attracted interest from Arsenal, and although no formal offer has been made, the club will not rest easy until the window closes with Guimaraes still at St James' Park.
After losing Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon, Newcastle can ill afford to see their midfield playmaker depart. Not only would it deprive them of one of their most creative players, but it would also necessitate finding a new captain. The club has already seen club captains Jamaal Lascelles and Kieran Trippier leave in 2026, leaving the leadership group in need of fresh blood this summer.
Potential Candidates for the Armband
Dan Burn
Burn is the obvious choice—a local lad with black-and-white blood. He has already worn the armband with pride and would relish the role. However, at 34, questions remain about his regular playing time. Some argue he doesn't need the captaincy to lead on the pitch, and taking the club captain role vacated by Trippier may be the ideal solution.
Malick Thiaw
Thiaw was the standout success of last summer's troubled transfer window, rarely missing a beat in central defense. He leads by example, has close bonds with several players including Nick Woltemade, and would be a popular choice. A more senior role in the squad is expected this term.
Sven Botman
At his best, the Dutch defender is a classy operator capable of leading the backline. Whether he is vocal enough for the captaincy is debatable, but the role could bring out another side of his personality. He has Premier League experience and is entering his prime years, making him a candidate to consider.
Lewis Hall
Despite being only 21, Hall is one of the few guaranteed first-team starters. Never afraid to make himself heard on the pitch, the captaincy would be a big step for the former Chelsea man, but it could help commit his future to the club. At first glance it seems unlikely, but the more one considers it, the more he appears a perfect candidate.
Joelinton
Could the captaincy swap from one Brazilian to another? Joelinton plays with his heart on his sleeve and has an inspirational desire to win. The extra responsibility might curb his yellow card count, but it is hard to imagine him toning down his in-your-face attitude on the pitch.
Fabian Schar
Like Burn, Schar is an experienced presence in the dressing room, though he may lack that leadership edge. He has been written off before and proven people wrong, but faces a tough challenge to command a regular place ahead of Malick Thiaw this coming season.
Jacob Murphy
The boyhood Newcastle fan took the armband for a rare 1-0 away win at Chelsea last season. However, doubts over regular game time could hinder his chances of claiming the armband permanently. Murphy will still have a role in the leadership group, provided Everton do not follow up interest with a sizeable offer.
