Newcastle has turned down Arsenal's initial offer for midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, prompting the Gunners to weigh their next move. The Premier League champions are now engaged in direct negotiations with Newcastle, considering whether to submit an improved bid. Guimaraes, who has expressed his desire to join Arsenal, has reported for Newcastle's pre-season training camp in Spain. With two years remaining on his contract and a club-held option for a third, Newcastle is keen to retain their captain.
Guimaraes has made 195 appearances for the Magpies, scoring 31 goals since his £40m transfer from Lyon in 2022. The midfielder recently praised outgoing head coach Eddie Howe, calling him the 'king of this club.' Football expert Julian Laurens believes the negotiation is a chess game between the two clubs, with Newcastle seeking to maximize their profit and Arsenal unwilling to overpay.
Laurens expects the deal to be completed within the next couple of weeks, with Guimaraes likely to play a key role in Arsenal's midfield. Former Premier League winner Asmir Begovic also predicts that Guimaraes will ultimately join Arsenal, citing the player's desire to compete at the highest level and the club's ambition to win multiple trophies.