From Brazil: Fresh details emerge on Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimarães’ Arsenal transfer

Arsenal’s pursuit of Newcastle star Bruno Guimarães has become one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer. Fresh reports from Brazil provide more detail on where negotiations stand – even if they disagree on the figures involved.

Interest from the Gunners has been well established for some time. However, ESPN Brazil and Globo Esporte have now offered further insight into the current state of talks and Bruno’s own position.

According to ESPN, Arsenal have increased their offer to €75.8m (£65m). Although, that remains below Newcastle United’s current valuation.

The outlet claims Newcastle would be prepared to begin negotiations at around €81.6m (£70m). Sources heard from inside the club believe a deal is “not impossible” despite the gap that remains between the sides.

Globo Esporte, however, paint a more complicated picture.

Bruno Guimarães has already decided

According to the report, the midfielder was disappointed after Newcastle sanctioned the departures of Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali. He believed those sales went against the gradual strengthening of the squad that had been promised.

Globo Esporte add that Bruno held a frank conversation with Eddie Howe towards the end of last season. He explained his desire to join a team capable of consistently competing for major trophies.

The report also claims the 28-year-old has already given the green light to Arsenal, with personal terms largely agreed even before the World Cup. Since then, negotiations have been left in the hands of his representatives. During this time, he has enjoyed a post-World Cup holiday with his family.

ESPN, meanwhile, add that the prospect of Champions League football is one of Arsenal’s biggest advantages. The Gunners believe competing in Europe’s top club competition could help convince Bruno.

The same report also stresses the Brazil international will not force an exit. Despite wanting the move, he is said to have an excellent relationship with Newcastle and their supporters.

But Arsenal also have another reason to remain optimistic. Sporting director Andrea Berta has admired Bruno for years and previously tried to sign him for Atletico Madrid in 2020.

That long-standing interest helps explain why the midfielder has remained such a high priority.

Different valuations, same expectation

While ESPN Brasil suggest talks could begin at around €81.6m (£70m), Globo Esporte believe the Magpies expect a package worth closer to €105m (£90m). That sum is made up of guaranteed money and performance-related bonuses.

The Brazilian publication also says Arsenal have already seen an opening proposal worth €52.5m (£45m) plus €11.7m (£10m) in bonuses rejected. In addition, club officials had initially hoped to move towards €81.6m (£70m) before being made aware Newcastle’s expectations are considerably higher.

Despite those differences, both reports point in the same direction.

Bruno Guimarães wants the move, Arsenal remain determined to sign him, and Newcastle are open to a sale at the right price. The expectation in Brazil is that negotiations will continue, with neither side believing the transfer is close to being resolved just yet.