In a development that will catch the eye of many a discerning Premier League observer, Newcastle United’s Brazilian maestro, Bruno Guimaraes, appears set to play a pivotal role as a potential target for Arsenal, with an intriguing audition on the horizon. Arsenal’s gaffer, Mikel Arteta, will soon have the perfect opportunity to evaluate how the midfielder might fit into his tactical setup.
Guimaraes has long been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, particularly as Arsenal’s soon-to-arrive sporting director, Andrea Berta, gears up for a sweeping overhaul of the club’s midfield. With Thomas Partey and Jorginho both understood to be on the cusp of exits this summer, the Gunners are actively seeking reinforcements. The prospect of signing Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi remains Arsenal’s top priority, with negotiations purportedly at an advanced stage. Zubimendi, a talent who has previously turned his back on offers from the likes of Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool, could be pivotal for the North Londoners.
Nevertheless, with additional signings required, Guimaraes could emerge as a prime target, having continually impressed this season while playing a key role in Newcastle’s Carabao Cup triumph. His immediate focus, however, is Brazil’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Colombia. Following a pair of draws in November’s international fixtures, a victory is desperately sought, with Arsenal’s own Gabriel Magalhaes also likely to feature. The duo, entrenched as regulars in Brazil’s national team, have formed the backbone in midfield and defence through their last trio of matches.
This impending fixture offers Arteta another chance to scrutinise how Guimaraes might perform with Gabriel behind him, a combination that could very well mirror Arsenal’s future frameworks. Scheduled for the early hours of Friday morning, a Brazilian triumph would see them eclipse their Colombian counterparts in the standings.
Rumours persist linking Guimaraes with summer moves to Arsenal or Manchester City, despite Newcastle’s recent trophy success. The former Lyon enforcer is likely eager for a return to the UEFA Champions League. While Newcastle have secured, at the very least, a spot in the UEFA Conference League, a top-five Premier League finish would guarantee a return to Europe’s premier competition. Failing that, manager Eddie Howe and his team might brace themselves for possible departures, with reports from Spain suggesting an agreement allowing Guimaraes to leave for a mere £60 million if Champions League qualification eludes them—a claim later contested by The Sun.
Regardless, the Gunners will undoubtedly be in the running for Guimaraes’ signature ahead of the 2025/26 season, with Berta keen to make a formidable mark in Arsenal’s transfer dealings.