Arsenal 'step up interest' in €120m Premier League superstar

Cameron Smith

Updated: 22 Nov 2024 08:07 GMT
4 min read

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Arsenal have stepped up their interest in Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, according to reports in Spain.

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The Brazil international has been linked with a St James’ Park departure for over a year, with Arsenal and Manchester City keen on poaching him from the Magpies.

However, both clubs have now intensified their interest in Guimaraes, according to Fichajes, as they eye a possible deal during the January transfer window.

Newcastle are unlikely to sell the Brazilian mid-season, but Man City are eager to bolster their midfield options following Rodri’s ACL injury, while Arsenal are preparing for the possible departures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho next summer.

But, Guimaraes’ current deal at Newcastle isn’t due to expire until 2028, after he signed an extension last year, and Eddie Howe’s side are confident that he will remain at the club for the foreseeable future.

The Brazilian’s €120 million release clause expired in June, meaning Newcastle are now in control of any potential transfer fee, which could prove problematic for both Arsenal and Man City.

Guimaraes has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €63.8m, but Fichajes claim that Newcastle will demand a fee in excess of €120m to sell the 27-year-old, meaning he would likely become the most expensive Premier League player in history if he joins Arsenal or Man City next year.

What has Bruno Guimaraes said?

While away on international duty with Brazil, Guimaraes addressed interest from Man City during an interview with Globo.

“I believe that at my club I am an idol and I have a lot of respect,” the Newcastle midfielder said.

“I am the captain of Newcastle and it is something that if you had asked me three years ago, my biggest dream would have been to play in the Premier League. Playing, being an idol, being captain is something wonderful.

Current ETV

Bruno Guimarães

DM, M (C)

Newcastle Utd.

Bruno Guimarães

DM, M (C)

Newcastle Utd.

ETV Range

€47.9M - €79.8M

“I really like Newcastle. Of course, having Manchester City's interest shows that I am at a high level, but it was nothing more than interest. I know that [Pep] Guardiola likes my game, it is normal to have great coaches who admire your football.

“We spoke once after an interview, I praised his work, he praised my work, but it was nothing more than that.”