Arsenal have completed the signing of Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle United for £75m. The midfielder has signed a four-year deal with an option for an additional 12 months at the Emirates Stadium. Guimarães expressed that leaving Newcastle was one of the most difficult decisions of his life.
The Brazil international stated his desire for a new challenge, aiming to win trophies and make history with his new club. He highlighted that he felt ready for this new chapter for himself and his family. Guimarães had made it clear earlier in the summer that he wanted to join the Premier League champions.
Guimarães departed Newcastle’s training camp in La Manga, Spain, to finalise his transfer following a breakthrough in discussions. He revealed that he received messages from several future teammates, including fellow countryman Gabriel and midfielder Declan Rice. Rice reportedly told him, “come here and please no more fights, now we’re friends.”
A new challenge and trophy aspirations
Guimarães described his move as a tough decision due to his strong connection with Newcastle. He explained that he needed a new challenge in his life and felt that joining Arsenal would be an exciting one. He also mentioned that after playing in two World Cups, he believes he is at a point in his life where he needs such a challenge.
The midfielder expressed his ambition to win trophies and make history, believing Arsenal is the right place to achieve these goals. He stated his excitement to begin his journey with the club, acknowledging the tough games ahead and the importance of a strong squad.
Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, noted that Guimarães’ arrival significantly strengthens the team’s midfield options. Berta highlighted Guimarães’ versatility, stating he can play as both a defensive midfielder and a box-to-box player, combining quality with quantity and consistently contributing goals and assists.
Guimarães joined Newcastle in January 2022 when the club was in a challenging position. He played a significant role in their improved performance under former head coach Eddie Howe. He was part of the squad that qualified for the Champions League in 2023 and 2025, before the team finished 12th in the Premier League last season.
The midfielder also captained Newcastle to their first trophy since 1955, lifting the EFL Cup. He made 195 appearances and scored 31 goals for the club during his tenure at St. James’ Park. Newcastle’s sporting director, Ross Wilson, indicated that the club had to be flexible and react to Guimarães’ desire to leave, despite it not being part of their initial strategy.
Newcastle’s statement and future plans
In a statement to Newcastle, Guimarães conveyed that leaving was “one of the toughest decisions of my life.” He expressed his love for the club, its supporters, teammates, and staff, who made him and his family feel at home from his first day. He also thanked PIF, chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan, and Jamie Reuben for their support.
Guimarães also extended his gratitude to David and Ross for their respect throughout the transfer process, acknowledging their efforts to keep him at Newcastle. He mentioned having a positive conversation with Matthias Jaissle, the club’s new manager, and leaves confident that the club is in capable hands. Newcastle United wished Guimarães and his family well following his departure.
The agreed fee for Guimarães represents one of the highest transfer fees ever received for a player aged 28 or over, and a record fee for a player of his age and position combined.
Source: bbc.co.uk