Arsenal have secured the signing of Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United on a four-year contract, with an option for an additional year, in a deal reported to be worth around £75 million. The 28-year-old, who captained Newcastle to their first major trophy in 56 years by winning the 2025 Carabao Cup, joined Arsenal on August 8, marking a significant move for both clubs ahead of the new Premier League season.
Guimaraes, who initially arrived at Newcastle in January 2022 from Lyon, quickly became a key figure at St. James’ Park, making 195 appearances and scoring 31 goals across all competitions. His leadership and midfield versatility, combining defensive solidity with creativity and an ability to contribute offensively, have earned him recognition as one of the league’s standout midfielders. He has also been a regular for the Brazilian national team, including participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The transfer represents a notable blow for Newcastle, who have also seen the departures of key players Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali, as well as manager Eddie Howe, who recently left the club and was succeeded by German coach Matthias Jaissle. Newcastle’s sporting director Ross Wilson acknowledged the emotional difficulty of the decision, explaining that Guimaraes expressed a desire to leave for a new challenge, which the club ultimately respected.
For Arsenal, the acquisition of Guimaraes is viewed as a statement of intent to maintain their Premier League title and strengthen their campaign in European competitions. Sporting director Andrea Berta described the signing as essential to sustaining the club’s competitive standards, praising Guimaraes’s ability to play both as a defensive midfielder and a box-to-box player, contributing goals and assists regularly. The Brazilian’s presence is expected to enhance the squad’s tactical flexibility and help manage the workload of other midfielders, including Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, and captain Martin Odegaard.
Guimaraes expressed excitement about joining Arsenal and the challenge ahead. Citing the club’s rich history, he spoke of his ambition to make his own mark and inspire future players, drawing inspiration from former Gunner Gilberto Silva, a fellow Brazilian who was instrumental in Arsenal’s unbeaten Premier League title in the 2003-04 season. Guimaraes said he had already spoken to Gilberto, and hopes to follow in his footsteps by contributing to Arsenal’s trophy haul.
The midfielder also mentioned a positive start to his relationship with Declan Rice, a former rival now turned teammate, highlighting a message from Rice intended to foster camaraderie. Guimaraes pledged to be a “warrior” for Arsenal, emphasizing his determination to give his all for the club’s success.
Arsenal’s preparations continue ahead of their opening Premier League fixture at home against Coventry City on August 21, with Guimaraes expected to play a key role in the squad as they aim to defend their league title and pursue further silverware.