Bruno Guimarães is closing in on a move away from Newcastle United to join Arsenal, bringing weeks of high-stakes negotiations over the Magpies captain’s future to a close.
The North London club aims to add one of the Premier League’s top midfielders to Mikel Arteta’s squad as part of their drive to push for domestic and European silverware in the upcoming season.
Agreement Details Between Arsenal and Newcastle
According to French outlet L’Équipe, Arsenal have reached an agreement in principle with Newcastle to sign Guimarães for a fee in the region of €90 million.
Newcastle initially turned down Arsenal’s opening bid of €70 million, insisting on a significantly higher valuation to part ways with their captain. Following further talks, Arsenal raised their offer to meet Newcastle’s terms, leaving only final details regarding performance add-ons, agent commissions, and payment structures to be resolved.
Guimarães had previously agreed personal terms with Arsenal on a five-year contract. He also informed Newcastle officials and former manager Eddie Howe of his desire to leave St James’ Park and join the Premier League champions.
Once the final financial terms are signed off, the Brazilian midfielder will undergo medical examinations before the transfer is officially announced.
Why Bruno Guimarães Chose Arsenal
Guimarães is keen to return to Champions League football and compete for major trophies after Newcastle failed to secure European qualification for the upcoming campaign.
Arsenal identified the Brazilian international as a primary midfield target due to his tactical versatility, capable of excelling as a deep-lying playmaker or as an advanced central midfielder.
His arrival will provide Mikel Arteta with versatile options alongside Declan Rice and Martín Zubimendi. Guimarães brings proven Premier League experience, creative vision, high-pressing energy, and box-to-box attacking capability.
Although Newcastle originally hoped to retain their captain, the fact that Guimarães had just two years remaining on his contract—coupled with his clear stance on leaving—convinced the club to sanction his sale for a substantial fee.
Lyon Set for Financial Windfall From Guimarães Transfer
Guimarães moved to Newcastle from Olympique Lyonnais in January 2022 for a €42 million fee, which eventually rose to nearly €50 million with performance add-ons.
As part of that agreement, Lyon inserted a 20% sell-on clause on any profit Newcastle make from a future sale. If the transfer to Arsenal is completed at €90 million, the Ligue 1 club stands to receive approximately €8 million.
During his spell on Tyneside, the Brazilian international made 195 appearances for Newcastle across all competitions, scoring 31 goals and providing 32 assists while wearing the captain’s armband and establishing himself among the Premier League’s premier midfielders.
