Arsenal chief given confidence to make ‘record-breaking’ Newcastle United talisman bid

Arsenal sporting director Edu believes he can land Newcastle United talisman Bruno Guimaraes this summer, according to reports.

Potential suitors have a window of opportunity to land the 26-year-old, with his £100million release clause active throughout June. The ball then falls back into Newcastle’s court should no club make a swift approach for Guimaraes.

Toon chiefs want to keep the Brazilian but have hinted at needing to offload star players to bankroll further investment. CEO Darren Eales suggested this in January without naming any of the Magpies’ star assets.

Guimaraes himself has publicly shut down speculation on several occasions in 2023-24. Most recently, the midfielder insisted he was “happy” at Newcastle after bagging the winner in last month’s 1-0 win over Fulham.

“I hope to stay much longer”, he said. “I am happy here. Let’s see what the future brings, but I am happy. I hope to play much more for Newcastle United.”

European football is thought to be the key to keeping Guimaraes - idolised by Toon fans - at St James’ Park. But TeamTalk claim Arsenal are back in the mix for the former Lyon man as Mikel Arteta drafts his transfer plans.

The Gunners famously targeted Guimaraes before his Newcastle move - a situation now part of Tyneside legend that has its own X-rated chant. Jorginho has played a similar role this season, acting as the “regista” in Arsenal’s 4-3-3 system.

Guimaraes would be considered a step up while being able to rotate for the more enforcer-type holder Declan Rice. The piece suggests his compatriot, Edu, has heard noises from the Newcastle midfielder’s camps that he may welcome an approach.