The Arsenal pursuit of Bruno Guimarães remains firmly on track despite Eddie Howe’s shock departure from Newcastle United, according to BBC Sport’s Sami Mokbel.
Following Thursday’s bombshell news that Howe is leaving St James’ Park with immediate effect, questions quickly emerged over whether the managerial change would impact Arsenal’s chances of signing the Brazilian midfielder.
Bruno Guimaraes future not linked to Eddie Howe’s exit as Newcastle head coach but protracted move to Arsenal moving forward amid expectation from multiple sources an agreement is possible. https://t.co/qfvOvvOGC0
— Sami Mokbel (@SamiMokbel_BBC) July 30, 2026
However, Mokbel reports that Guimarães’ future is not linked to Howe’s exit, with negotiations between Arsenal and Newcastle expected to continue regardless of the change in the dugout.
More significantly for Arsenal supporters, the BBC journalist adds that there is an expectation from multiple sources that an agreement between the clubs is still possible.
READ MORE: Newcastle reporter reveals Eddie Howe expects Bruno Guimaraes to be sold to Arsenal
That is another major indication that talks remain active behind the scenes.
Arsenal have made Guimarães one of their priority targets this summer, with Andrea Berta leading efforts to strengthen Mikel Arteta’s midfield ahead of the new season.
While Newcastle have so far resisted selling their captain, optimism surrounding a potential breakthrough has continued to grow over recent days.
Mokbel’s latest update follows a series of encouraging developments for Arsenal.
On Wednesday evening, before news of his departure emerged, Howe admitted that events surrounding Guimarães were no longer entirely within his control.
The following morning, one of Newcastle’s most respected reporters, Luke Edwards of The Telegraph, claimed Howe believed Guimarães would be sold this summer and that the situation had become “the final straw.”
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Mokbel’s information now provides an important clarification.
Rather than Howe’s exit creating the possibility of a transfer, the Arsenal move was already progressing independently, with negotiations continuing regardless of who occupies the Newcastle dugout.
That means Arsenal’s hopes are not dependent on Newcastle’s managerial upheaval.
Instead, discussions between the clubs are expected to continue as planned, with both sides still working towards a potential compromise.
Although no agreement has been reached and Newcastle remain determined to secure the best possible deal, the expectation from multiple well-placed sources that a compromise can still be found will undoubtedly encourage Arsenal supporters.
With the transfer window entering its decisive stages, all indications suggest the Bruno Guimarães saga is far from over.
If Mokbel’s latest information proves accurate, Arsenal remain firmly in the race to complete one of the standout signings of the summer.
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