Bruno Guimaraes breaks silence on Newcastle future as Arsenal learn dream transfer reality

Arsenal transfer news as Bruno Guimaraes speaks out over his future after strong January links

Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes has poured cold water on reports that he could leave the club in the coming months after speculation over his future. He was tipped as one to watch in January, especially after Magies chief executive Darren Eales admitted that Eddie Howe's side might have to sell before buying.

As one of the most saleable assets for the Toon, Guimaraes was immediately at the centre of speculation. Arsenal were also linked with striker Aleksander Isak. Both players have shown the quality to be top-tier options in positions that Edu Gaspar and Mikel Arteta are keen to bolster.

The pair were both also on Arsenal's radar before they moved to the north east. Guimaraes specifically attracted plenty of attention before his exit from Lyon in January 2022. "Arsenal approached my agent, but there was no offer," he explained at the time. "My aim, and I made it clear to Juninho, is to win a title with Lyon."

When he did eventually depart from France he also appeared to take a dig at the Gunners in his announcement video. Edu's name was visible in multiple headlines used at the start of the promo, a clear nod to the attempts made to bring him to north London.

However, after two years in England he remains a player of great interest to elite sides. With Arsenal exploring midfield options, namely Amadou Onana and Martin Zubimendi, Guimaraes links were only natural.

As an all-action all-round option capable of crashing the box, controlling matches, adding intensity as well as tackling and providing cover at the back, Guimaraes is held in high esteem. Arsenal are also having to cautiously plan for a future without Thomas Partey as his injury issues continue to cause problems.

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On paper, Guimaraes makes perfect sense a long-term replacement. He has attempted to snuff out talk of an imminent departure, though. "Sometimes people speak a lot about me," he told Sky Sports. "I just speak a lot about football. I’m very happy here and I like how the fans think of me here.

"Let the people speak. We have to get Europe [football] again, try for Champions League. I know it’s difficult but definitely [we are aiming] for Europa League.

"I enjoy my time here. The fans have been unbelievable for me and my family. I hope this can keep going for a long time."

Come the summer it would be a surprise not to see that resolve tested more strongly by sides across Europe. Whether Arsenal will be among those picking up the phone to Guimaraes' agent once more waits to be seen.

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