Arsenal continue to pursue a deal for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes, and the next 24 hours could be telling for how things play out
10:29, 30 Jul 2026
Top Arsenal target Bruno Guimaraes is due to return to Newcastle United for pre-season training on Friday – but whether he will show up remains to be seen. The Gunners are looking to strike a £70million deal for the midfielder.
The Brazil international is a top target for Mikel Arteta's team, with the 28-year-old open to the move. Newcastle are aware of Guimaraes' stance and football.london's sister-title, ChronicleLive, have described selling him for £70m as a 'non-starter'.
It is also claimed that the Magpies are growing frustrated with Arsenal's approach, with no direct contact yet between the two clubs. The North East club are confident about keeping their star midfielder, although Eddie Howe's impending exit may now change things and signify Newcastle are resigned to losing Guimaraes.
Speaking on Wednesday over whether Guimaraes would join the squad in La Manga for pre-season following his return from an extended World Cup break, Howe said: "The details I don't actually know, but I don't see any reason why that wouldn't be the case [him being back on Friday]."
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Howe also admitted on Thursday night after Newcastle's 4-1 defeat at Bristol City that the Guimaraes transfer speculation is an unhealthy distraction. Time will tell whether Guimaraes chooses to train in the next 24 hours, as Howe said: "Any distraction, if it's not healthy, is unhealthy.
"So, yeah [it would be negative for things to drag on], but we're not in control of that. And to some degree, I don't think Bruno's in control of that either."
Howe then introduced an intriguing dimension to proceedings, alluding to external 'forces' beyond his influence that could impact the midfielder's situation.
The 48-year-old said: "What will be, will be. We can't control the forces that are at play here, we've just got to make sure that when Bruno comes back, we look after him and he trains well, which I'm sure he will do. And he makes a difference as he always has done."
When Chronicle Live pressed him on whether he had sought any reassurances during their discussions in Bristol, he added: "We've spoken numerous times. Assurances? I don't think you can push too hard for those.
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"I've said many times we want players who are committed, and Bruno has always been committed. His training performances and his game performances have been outstanding, every time he's worn the shirt, he's played with the fans by his side. I'd love to see that continue."
It is claimed that the Gunners have a hardline maximum valuation of Guimaraes and are unwilling to overpay despite their desire to sign the midfielder.
However, they may need to go the extra mile for a player who still has two years remaining on his current deal. Newcastle also hold an option to extend his contract by another year, giving them some leverage.