Iain Dowie has hailed Bruno Guimaraes and highlighted the Brazilian’s ability to contribute goals and assists as the Newcastle United captain closes in on a move to Arsenal.
The Gunners have agreed a deal worth £75 million with Newcastle for Guimaraes, with the midfielder now poised to complete his switch to north London. The agreement brings an end to a transfer saga that has developed rapidly in recent weeks, with Arsenal stepping up their pursuit of the 28-year-old.
Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson confirmed on Friday that the club had not wanted to sell their captain, but said Guimaraes had made it clear that he wanted to leave and move on. The Brazilian’s departure represents a major blow for the Magpies, who have regarded him as one of the central figures of their recent rise.
Dowie believes ARSENAL are acquiring a midfielder capable of offering considerably more than defensive security, pointing to Guimaraes’ ability to influence matches in the final third as well as his work in possession and without the ball
Speaking to BettingLounge, Dowie said: “When you look at Bruno Guimaraes’ return during his time at Newcastle, he’s scored 30 league goals.
“He’s clearly a game-changer. He can operate in various positions across a midfield three.
“He guarantees goals and assists, and brings real quality. Is there any downside to signing him? I don’t think so.
“The only concern is maybe his age, but he’s still only 28. But he’s made 153 league appearances and scored 30 goals, so that’s one in five.
“I think he’ll get more goals with Arsenal as well.”
For ARSENAL Guimaraes provides another high-level option capable of contributing across multiple phases of the game. His goals and assists could be just as important as his defensive work, particularly in matches where opponents sit deep and Arsenal need midfielders capable of breaking lines and arriving in dangerous positions.
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