Newcastle United are now fearful of losing midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, whose head has been turned by Arsenal's interest, according to Chronicle Live.
Guimaraes enjoyed another impressive campaign at St James' Park in 2025/26, despite Eddie Howe's side's struggles, contributing to 16 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions. With the north-east outfit missing out on Champions League football, and the Brazilian's contract now entering its final two years, the Gunners sense a market opportunity.
Arsenal are optimistic about potentially landing Guimaraes, although reports have suggested that Newcastle have no intention of selling and will definitively reject approaches from prospective suitors.
However, a new update has emerged which indicates that the Magpies are now concerned about losing their captain and talisman.
Arsenal's interest has turned Bruno Guimaraes' head
Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes celebrates vs Crystal Palacevia Reuters
After speculation linking Guimaraes with Arsenal emerged last week, Newcastle responded by drawing up plans to offer the 28-year-old a lucrative new contract.
The Tynesiders are desperate to fend off interest from the Premier League Champions, and felt a £200,000-a-week proposal could tempt him to stay put.
However, Newcastle correspondent Lee Ryder now suggests via Chronicle Live that the north-east club have reason to be anxious about Arsenal's potential advances on the player.
Ryder claims that Newcastle are braced for contact from the North Londoners regarding Guimaraes' availability, while the midfielder's links to super agent Giuliano Bertolucci are a cause for concern.
Bertolucci helped facilitate moves for Gabriel Magalhaes and David Luiz to the Emirates Stadium. On top of this, Guimaraes' agent, Alexis Malavolta, who works for the Bertolucci group, was pictured with fellow super agent Kia Joorabchian recently.
This fuelled speculation that the pair are plotting Guimaraes' exit from Tyneside.
Arsenal are understood to have made a bid in the region of £55million for the Newcastle man, which was rejected, with reports suggesting an £80million will be forthcoming. But the initial links have reportedly turned the player's head, and this could be pivotal in the deal materialising.
Arsenal's Bruno Guimaraes transfer chances have been significantly bolstered
Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes smiles as he walks into St James' Parkvia Reuters
Tottenham are said to be advancing in their pursuit of Sandro Tonali, which could impact Arsenal's move for Guimaraes, as the Magpies will not be keen on losing both of their midfield superstars.
However, Arsenal should still feel confident about their prospects in the chase for Newcastle's skipper. If Guimaraes' head has indeed been turned, and he's willing to push for a move to North London, then the Gunners are in an extremely strong position.
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The player turns 29 later this year and has 24 months left on his contract. If Newcastle don't sell now, particularly if the player is unhappy and wants out, then they'll likely end up regretting not cashing in when they had the opportunity.
Arsenal are understood to believe that they could cut a deal at around the £65 million mark.
Guimaraes assisted Gabriel Martinelli for Brazil's winning goal against Japan in the World Cup round of 32 tie on Monday, and the Arsenal winger subsequently described the player as 'incredible'. Clearly, there is an existing chemistry between the two Brazilians which could be built upon in N5.
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