It had been reported that former Newcastle United co-owner Amanda Staveley promised Brno Guimaraes he could leave for £50million.
Amanda Staveley has rejected claims that she gave Bruno Guimaraes permission to leave Newcastle United.
A bizarre transfer saga has resulted in Arsenal unsettling the Brazilian despite failing to contact Newcastle. The Gunners are yet to make a formal approach, with Guimaraes favouring a move to North London.
It is understood that the Brazilian wants to explore his options after four-and-a-half years on Tyneside. However, Newcastle do not wish - or need - to sell Guimaraes after losing Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali.
Amanda Staveley claim
The Telegraph reported this morning that Guimaraes’ camp believed they had assurances from Staveley that the player could leave for £50million if the Magpies failed to secure Champions League football. This mirrors the Alexander Isak saga, which saw Staveley accused of offering the striker a new contract in 2024.
The Ripon-based businesswoman ultimately sold her shares in the club just months later and it is alleged that Newcastle reneged on this promise. With Staveley leaving two years ago, fans were surprised to learn of a supposed conversation that led to Guimaraes wanting to join Arsenal this summer.
Staveley’s husband, Mehrdad Ghodoussi, responded “utter nonsense” to the claims on social media. The Telegraph later confirmed it had spoken to Staveley, who denies telling Guimaraes he could leave.
Bruno Guimaraes valuation
Whether Guimaraes or Staveley are telling the truth, Newcastle not allowing their captain to leave on the cheap is certain. Any suggestion Arsenal could sign Guimaraes for £50million is wide of the mark.
Tonali joined Tottenham Hotspur for £100million, with the Magpies driving a hard bargain. Toon CEO David Hopkinson told reporters in March that anyone wanting out will do so on the club's terms.
Despite turning 29 in November, Newcastle can drive a hard bargain for Guimaraes. He is effectively contracted until 2030 and Arsenal know his importance to the Magpies.
The saga remains in limbo until the Gunners make a concrete approach. Guimaraes is not due back to first-team training until later this month after being given extra time off due to his World Cup commitments.
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