Bruno Guimarães has reportedly reached an agreement with Arsenal over a five-year contract, though the Premier League clubs remain apart on valuation as negotiations continue for the Brazil international.
According to L’Équipe, the 28-year-old midfielder has accepted the terms of a proposed move to North London. However, Newcastle United have already rejected an opening offer from the Gunners and are holding firm on their asking price.
Valuation Gap to Bridge
Arsenal’s initial firm bid of €70 million was turned down by the Magpies, who value Guimarães at approximately €90m. The Gunners are expected to return with an improved proposal in the coming days as they attempt to secure the player’s signature.
The Brazilian has reportedly informed Newcastle’s management of his desire to join Arsenal, adding pressure on the club to sanction a departure despite their preference to retain a key member of Eddie Howe’s squad. Guimarães has established himself as a central figure at St James’ Park since arriving from France in January 2022.
Lyon Set for Significant Payout
Should the transfer proceed, Guimarães’s former club Olympique Lyonnais stand to collect a substantial windfall. The French side inserted a 20 per cent sell-on clause on any future capital gain when they sold the Brazilian to Newcastle for €50m (including bonuses) two-and-a-half years ago.
Based on an anticipated sale price of around €80m, Lyon could receive approximately €6m from the arrangement. The funds would provide a welcome boost to the Ligue 1 club’s finances as they look to rebuild following recent economic challenges.
Next Steps
Arsenal must now decide whether to meet Newcastle’s valuation or risk losing the midfielder. With personal terms understood to be in place, the focus shifts entirely to whether the two clubs can agree on a fee.
Until that happens, Guimarães remains a Newcastle player, contracted to the club after joining from Lyon for a deal that could eventually reach €50m including performance-related add-ons.