Newcastle United close in on Bruno Guimaraes transfer as Arsenal miss out on statement signing

Newcastle United are closing in on the signing of Bruno Guimaraes after agreeing a fee with Lyon late on Thursday night.

Eddie Howe’s side finally reached a compromise with the Ligue 1 outfit, just over 24 hours after they “categorically denied” such transfer was taking place.

Indeed, NewcastleWorld understands the hold up of the deal was through Lyon preferring a slightly larger fee up front.

The Magpies will spread the transfer fee, believed to be around £33million, equally across five years in line with Financial Fair Play rules.

It is hoped Guimaraes will undergo his medical in South America, where he is currently on international duty with Brazil, on Friday before finalising his move over the weekend.

The 24-year-old was an unused substitute as his country drew 1-1 with Ecuador in their World Cup qualifier last night.

Howe’s men are currently in Saudi Arabia but are due to fly back to the UK on Saturday once they round off their trip with a behind-closed-doors friendly against Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Ittihad today.

A statement of intent - and a shrewd piece of business

It goes without saying that Guimaraes is an excellent signing for Newcastle, and another statement of intent having already signed England international Kieran Trippier this month.

Guimaraes has been watched by some of the biggest clubs in Europe - Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United for example, so to clinch his signature of something of a massive coup for the Magpies.

Again, could it have a knock-on effect in the remaining days of the transfer window? It’s a deal that will undoubtedly see others stand up and take notice of the club’s exciting ambition.

In terms of Guimaraes himself, it’s exactly the type of player Newcastle need. A lot has been made about their struggles in defence, but the midfield has been just as problematic.

Guimaraes is an aggressive deep-lying midfielder and one that is constantly looking for forward passes.

His statistics this season include a hugely impressive 150 passes into the final third and 144 progressive passes. He’s also won 44 tackles in total.

Simply, Guimaraes has become one of the leading midfielders in France, if not Europe.

If a deal is completed, massive credit goes to Newcastle’s recruitment team and owners for attracting a player of his calibre into a Premier League relegation battle.

All being well, Guimaraes will become the sixth Brazilian to represent Newcastle and become the club’s most expensive signing behind fellow countryman Joelinton.