Arsenal’s pursuit of Bruno Guimarães has taken a significant turn after the Brazilian reportedly informed Newcastle United that he wants to leave St James’ Park for the Premier League champions.
The Gunners are prepared to push their interest further, with a deal worth up to £60 million under consideration. Newcastle rejected an earlier verbal approach below that figure earlier this summer and continue to insist their midfield talisman is not for sale.
Whether that stance changes now the player has made his wishes clear remains to be seen.
Guimarães has been one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders since arriving from Lyon in 2022, combining relentless energy with creativity and leadership. Across 153 league appearances, he has contributed 30 goals and 26 assists, while helping Newcastle lift the Carabao Cup in 2025.
At 28, he would immediately strengthen Arsenal’s engine room with the kind of physicality, technical quality and winning mentality Arteta values.
Loose Cannon Verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If Arsenal can land Bruno for around £60 million, it could prove to be one of the bargains of the summer. He is entering his prime, already knows the Premier League inside out and has the personality to thrive in title races and Champions League knockout football.
If the player is pushing for the move, Arsenal suddenly hold far stronger cards than they did a few weeks ago.
Meslier arrives as Arsenal plan for the future
Arsenal are also closing in on the signing of former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer following his departure from Elland Road.
The 26-year-old is expected to undergo a medical before completing the move, providing experienced cover behind David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
The deal is understood to be as much about the future as the present. Bringing in Meslier should allow highly-rated England Under-21 goalkeeper Tommy Setford to spend the season on loan, gaining valuable first-team experience rather than remaining on the bench at the Emirates.
Meslier made more than 200 appearances for Leeds and, despite losing his place after an inconsistent spell, remains a goalkeeper with considerable Premier League experience.
Loose Cannon Verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
This is smart squad building.
Signing an experienced Premier League goalkeeper for nothing is low risk, while simultaneously giving Setford the opportunity to develop through regular football. If Meslier rediscovers the form that made him one of England’s brightest young keepers, Arsenal will have excellent depth between the posts.
Farewell to Trossard?
Arsenal have also reached an agreement with Besiktas for Leandro Trossard, with the Belgian expected to complete a move worth around €20 million.
Trossard has delivered countless important moments in an Arsenal shirt and will leave with the gratitude of supporters. However, his departure also signals Arsenal’s continued evolution.
Sentiment cannot stand in the way of progress.
If Arteta believes younger, quicker or more dynamic attacking options will take Arsenal to another level, difficult decisions become necessary.
Loose Cannon Verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
A popular player leaving always hurts, but successful teams constantly refresh themselves. Trossard departs as a Premier League champion, and if his sale helps fund another elite signing, it may prove to be another difficult—but correct—decision.
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