Bruno Guimaraes’ future at Newcastle United has been thrust into fresh uncertainty after reports claimed Arsenal have reached an agreement on personal terms with the Brazil international, just hours after the midfielder paid an emotional tribute to departing head coach Eddie Howe.
The Newcastle captain described Howe as the “king of this club” following the manager’s decision to step down after five years in charge, praising the 48-year-old for transforming both the club and his own career on Tyneside.
Guimaraes’ heartfelt message has been overshadowed by mounting speculation that his own time at St James’ Park could also be drawing to a close. Multiple reports suggest ARSENAL are increasingly confident of securing the midfielder after agreeing personal terms on a long-term contract, with negotiations between the two clubs continuing over a transfer fee.
In an Instagram post, Guimaraes wrote the words over a picture of Howe: “King of this club!! Thanks for everything you’ve done for us.
“I loved enjoying our time together. Thanks for making me a better player and person! No words I can say will really say how much I enjoyed being your player.
“Wish you all the very best in your future, gaffer.”
According to the latest reports, Arsenal have identified Guimaraes as Mikel Arteta’s priority midfield target and believe the upheaval at Newcastle following Howe’s exit has strengthened their chances of completing a deal. Newcastle are understood to value their captain at around £80-85 million, while Arsenal’s previous offers are believed to have fallen short of that valuation.
Further reports claim Guimaraes has delayed joining Newcastle’s pre-season preparations to allow negotiations to progress, although the club insist there were already plans for the midfielder to arrive later than the rest of the squad following his summer commitments with Brazil.
Howe’s departure marks the end of one of Newcastle’s most successful modern eras. Since taking charge in 2021, he guided the Magpies back into the Champions League and delivered the club’s first major domestic trophy in decades with League Cup success in 2025.
Explaining his decision to leave, Howe said it was the right time to “recharge” after an intense five-year spell in charge.
Should Guimaraes complete a move to ARSENAL, it would represent another significant blow for Newcastle during a turbulent summer that has already seen major changes on and off the pitch.
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