Arsenal have been rebuffed in their initial bid for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes, who has become an integral part of the Magpies' squad since joining from Lyon in 2021. The technically gifted midfielder's move away from St James' Park this summer is now looking increasingly likely, with Arsenal seen as a strong contender to land him under Mikel Arteta’s management.
Newcastle Rejects Arsenal's Opening Bid for Bruno Guimaraes
According to iPaper, Newcastle have turned down Arsenal's opening proposal after the two clubs opened direct talks over a potential deal. The Magpies are understood to value Guimaraes at more than £80m, with Arsenal's initial offer falling well short of that valuation.
The report adds that the Gunners are expected to return with an improved bid for the Newcastle skipper, who is reportedly keen to make the move to North London. Unlike last summer, when Alexander Isak refused to join Newcastle on their pre-season tour, Guimaraes has not attempted to force the issue despite his desire to join Arsenal.
Newcastle Change Stance on Bruno Guimaraes?
When Arsenal first expressed an interest in Guimaraes, Newcastle's position was unequivocal: the midfielder was not for sale. However, the landscape appears to have shifted following Eddie Howe’s resignation last week, with the former manager citing that he could no longer continue in the role.
Incoming head coach Matthias Jaissle is expected to begin with a clean slate, and while Guimaraes would undoubtedly remain a key player under any manager, Newcastle may now be more willing to listen to substantial offers than they were earlier in the summer. There is also a financial reality to consider. At 28, Guimaraes is arguably at the peak of his market value, and Newcastle may feel this represents their best opportunity to command a premium fee before that valuation inevitably begins to decline over the coming years.
