Newcastle United has instructed midfielder Bruno Guimaraes to return for pre-season training ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, with the Brazil international expected back in the first week of August. Guimaraes has been on an extended break following his participation in the World Cup with Brazil. His return coincides with Newcastle’s summer training camp in La Manga, Spain, and a friendly match against La Liga side Valencia scheduled for August 8.
Newcastle will depart for their pre-season tour on July 31, and Guimaraes is expected to either travel with the team or join them at the training resort. The club is eager to avoid any disruption similar to last year’s situation with forward Alexander Isak, who delayed his return and ultimately pushed through a transfer after a series of standoffs.
The midfielder is currently attracting transfer interest from Premier League champions Arsenal, who have targeted Guimaraes as part of their squad strengthening during their own pre-season preparations in Ireland. Despite persistent speculation, Newcastle have not received any official offers from the London club. Newcastle officials remain firm on their position not to sell, with insiders emphasizing that there is "no pressure" to part ways with the player.
Should Guimaraes submit a transfer request, which he has not done to date, Newcastle is prepared to engage in tough negotiations. The club's valuation for Guimaraes is reportedly closer to £100 million, significantly higher than the initial figures believed to be proposed by Arsenal, which have ranged from £45 million to £60 million. Newcastle also hold the option to trigger an additional year on Guimaraes’s contract, which currently has at least two years remaining.
From Arsenal’s perspective, the club reportedly maintains strict valuation targets for transfer pursuits, reflecting a willingness to step back if their price points are not met, as seen in the recent abandonment of a move for Morgan Rogers.
Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe appears focused on reintegrating Guimaraes into the squad quickly to ensure the player’s concentration on the upcoming season. The club’s management is intent on avoiding any public disputes or training absences, signaling their intent to have the Brazil midfielder fully engaged for pre-season activities and beyond.