Arsenal have finalized a £75m deal with Newcastle for the transfer of their captain, Bruno Guimaraes. Guimaraes has been granted permission to undergo a medical examination.
Earlier this summer, Guimaraes expressed his desire to join Arsenal if a suitable offer was made. Following the rejection of their initial bid, Arsenal's revised offer has been accepted, paving the way for the 28-year-old to join the Premier League champions. Guimaraes, who joined Newcastle from Lyon in 2022 for £40m, has made 195 appearances and scored 31 goals for the Magpies. Newcastle had been keen to retain Guimaraes, but the potential transfer would see them earn over £240m from player sales this summer, having already sold Anthony Gordon to Barcelona for £69.3m and Sandro Tonali to Spurs for £100m.
According to Sky Sports News reporter Keith Downie, Newcastle were eager to keep Guimaraes, but he was determined to leave in pursuit of winning titles. The deal was contingent upon Guimaraes' willingness to leave and Newcastle's valuation being met. Newcastle insisted on a fee that would be one of the highest for a player aged 28 or over.
Guimaraes has complied with Newcastle's demands, and the club is satisfied with the handling of the situation. Sky Sports' Oliver Yew believes the signing of Guimaraes is a statement move for Arsenal, who have acquired one of the best midfielders in the Premier League. The Brazilian's arrival strengthens Arsenal's midfield, providing manager Mikel Arteta with more options and allowing for the possibility of Declan Rice to have a breather in certain games.
The transfer fee, while significant, is considered fair value given the current market. Guimaraes' experience and consistency will be invaluable to Arsenal as they pursue their goal of winning the Champions League and retaining the Premier League title.