Arsenal close in on Bruno Guimaraes deal
Arsenal are reportedly growing increasingly confident of completing a major move for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes. The Brazil international has been at the centre of one of the summer’s biggest transfer stories, although a resolution is believed to be approaching. Newcastle have consistently maintained that they have not received an official approach from another club and that no direct club-to-club negotiations have taken place. However, Arsenal are understood to have worked through intermediaries as they attempt to move the deal forward.
Reports suggest that progress has been made in finding an agreement between the clubs, with discussions now believed to be centred on the final financial structure. Newcastle had initially been seeking a fee similar to the reported £92 million Tottenham paid for Sandro Tonali. A compromise package worth between £75 million and £80 million is now said to be close to being finalised. Should the transfer be completed, it would represent a significant statement from Arsenal as they look to strengthen their midfield options.
Newcastle prepare for possible captain exit
Guimaraes has been one of Newcastle’s most influential players since arriving from Lyon, developing into a key figure on and off the pitch. His potential departure would leave a major gap in the Magpies’ midfield, particularly given his leadership role as club captain. Newcastle are therefore believed to be making contingency plans rather than waiting until a deal is officially concluded. The club’s recruitment team has reportedly identified Inter Milan midfielder Petar Sucic as a possible replacement.
Italian reports claim Newcastle have joined Leeds United in registering an interest in the Croatia international. The Magpies are said to be prepared to test Inter’s resolve with an offer in the region of €35 million to €40 million, equivalent to roughly £30 million to £34 million. Inter are reportedly reluctant to sell the 22-year-old, who has quickly become an important part of their squad. Their stance could change, however, if an offer closer to their reported €45 million valuation is received.
Sucic emerges as midfield target
Sucic’s profile makes him a natural candidate for Newcastle if Guimaraes leaves St James’ Park. Operating primarily as a central midfielder, he combines energy, technical ability and an increasing influence in possession. He also has previous experience of facing Arsenal, having scored against the Gunners in the Champions League last season. That performance added to his growing reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young midfielders.
Despite his age, Sucic made 54 appearances in all competitions for Inter last season and has continued to establish himself at international level. He started three matches for Croatia at this summer’s World Cup, underlining the confidence placed in him by his national team. While Inter’s current position is that the midfielder is not for sale, Newcastle’s interest could intensify if Guimaraes’ move to Arsenal is confirmed. For now, both potential transfers remain subject to negotiations, but the next steps in the Guimaraes saga could shape Newcastle’s recruitment plans for the remainder of the window.