Arsenal midfielder Bruno Guimaraes has revealed the prime reason behind his departure from Newcastle United this summer.
The Gunners had earmarked the Brazilian as their priority midfield target, but they eventually landed his signature after lengthy negotiations.
The Magpies were initially eyeing £80 million for the 28-year-old, but Arsenal secured an agreement for £75m without any future add-ons.
The fee will be paid in three equal instalments (£25m). Arsenal will no doubt be pleased about signing one of the league’s best midfielders.
Meanwhile, Guimaraes’ absence will leave a huge void in the heart of the Magpies’ midfield, given they have also sold Sandro Tonali this summer.
In his farewell video published on X, the former Lyon man clarified that ‘differences in ideas’ contributed to his decision to leave the Tyneside outfit.
He said: “This farewell comes down to differences in ideas. Something that can happen in a relationship as beautiful, as strong and passionate as ours. Sometimes life leads us in a different direction.”
The Magpies were one of the best-progressing clubs at the end of the 2024/25 season, but they have since been on a downward slide. This started with Alexander Isak’s move to Liverpool last summer.
The club were unable to replace the Swede’s goals upfront despite purchasing Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade. This was followed by another exit spree during the ongoing transfer window.
Newcastle weakened their attack further with Anthony Gordon leaving for Barcelona. Tonali soon departed for Tottenham Hotspur, which probably convinced Guimaraes to move on as well.
The Brazilian obviously did not want to be part of a sinking ship. Eddie Howe recently stepped down from his head coach role at Newcastle, which was a huge hint that Guimaraes was on the way out.
Guimaraes has finally joined Arsenal, who were first fancied to sign him during his Lyon days. He has the opportunity to win regular silverware at the club, while the Magpies start another rebuilding phase.