Arsenal Bid for Bruno Guimarães Rejected by Newcastle
Sports Updated: 26 June 2026 15:07 EAT
Photo courtesy : Newcastle United Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimaraes
Arsenal have seen their opening attempt to sign Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimarães rejected after submitting a verbal offer worth less than £60 million, according to reports by The Athletic's David Ornstein. Newcastle immediately turned down the approach and are not considering the Brazilian international for sale during the current transfer window.
The Gunners are keen to reinforce their midfield as manager Mikel Arteta prepares his squad for another Premier League title challenge and a return to the UEFA Champions League. Guimarães has long been admired by Arsenal's recruitment team because of his ability to control matches, recover possession and contribute in attack.
Sources indicate Arsenal's initial proposal was made through intermediaries rather than as a formal written bid. The offer, believed to be below the £60 million mark, fell well short of Newcastle's valuation and was rejected without negotiations progressing.
Newcastle remain determined to keep hold of their captain, who is regarded as one of the club's most important players. The Magpies have made it clear internally that Guimarães is not available for transfer and continue to view him as a cornerstone of Eddie Howe's project.
The 28-year-old joined Newcastle from French side Olympique Lyonnais in January 2022 and has since established himself as one of the Premier League's leading midfielders. His performances have earned him widespread praise for his leadership, technical quality and consistency.
Guimarães has also become a regular for Brazil and is currently representing his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His displays on the international stage have further enhanced his reputation as one of Europe's elite central midfielders.
Despite Newcastle's firm stance, Arsenal's interest is expected to remain. Sporting director Andrea Berta is continuing to assess midfield reinforcements, with Guimarães among the club's preferred targets should circumstances change later in the transfer window.
However, there is currently no indication that Newcastle are prepared to soften their position. The club are under no financial pressure to sell and are instead focused on building a squad capable of competing for domestic and European honours.
Any future move for Guimarães would likely require Arsenal to submit a substantially improved offer while also convincing Newcastle to reconsider their decision. As things stand, the Magpies remain resolute that their captain will stay at St James' Park.
The rejection represents an early setback for Arsenal in their pursuit of one of the Premier League's most highly rated midfielders, leaving the North London club to decide whether to return with an improved proposal or pursue alternative targets before the transfer window closes.
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FELIX MAKONA
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