Howe’s Stance on Guimaraes
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has expressed his desire to keep Bruno Guimaraes at the club, despite ongoing interest from Arsenal. Howe indicated that he remains in constant communication with the Brazilian midfielder, who is expected to report for pre-season training on Friday. Howe stated that he has not received any assurances from Guimaraes regarding his future but emphasised the player’s commitment and outstanding performances.
Speaking after a recent defeat to Bristol City, Howe highlighted the importance of retaining key players. He noted that it is challenging to acquire and develop talented individuals, making it crucial to keep them once they are part of the squad. Guimaraes, according to Howe, falls into this category of an “outstanding player” who would have been beneficial in the recent match.
Arsenal’s Pursuit and Newcastle’s Position
Arsenal has been actively pursuing Guimaraes for some time, with reports suggesting they are preparing a bid for the midfielder. However, Newcastle has reportedly rejected multiple offers and maintains that Guimaraes is not for sale. There is a strong belief within Newcastle that Arsenal is unlikely to meet their valuation for the 28-year-old player, which is understood to be closer to £100m, while Arsenal’s reported bid is around £70m.
Sources indicate that Newcastle is unwilling to be pressured into lowering their demands. There is also a sense of “bewilderment” at how Arsenal has conducted their pursuit, with reports suggesting that discussions have primarily occurred through intermediaries rather than direct club-to-club talks or formal offers. Howe previously mentioned that he has had “really good conversations” with Guimaraes but acknowledged that his future is a matter for speculation by others.
This summer has been challenging for Newcastle, following a 12th-place finish in the Premier League last season. The club has already seen the departures of Anthony Gordon to Barcelona and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur for significant fees. Losing another fan-favourite like Guimaraes would add to the pressure on Howe from the club’s supporters.
Defensive Reinforcements for Arsenal
In addition to their interest in Guimaraes, Arsenal is also looking to strengthen their defence, particularly to cover for the injured William Saliba, who is sidelined with a back injury for an “extended period.” The club’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, has been exploring options for some time. In January, Arsenal was reportedly interested in Marc Guehi before he moved from Crystal Palace to Manchester City.
Other defenders who have been “discussed” as potential targets include Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa and free agent John Stones, although Stones appears set to join Inter Milan on a two-year deal. Como’s Jacobo Ramon is also on Arsenal’s “shortlist,” but this move presents a “significant complication.” Real Madrid holds a 50% sell-on fee and buy-back clauses for the 21-year-old Ramon.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Ramon could be impacted by their attempts to sign Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid this summer. If the move for Vinicius Junior does not materialise, Arsenal may be hesitant to further financially benefit Los Blancos by acquiring Ramon. Despite these challenges, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Wednesday that he aims for his squad to “evolve” this summer by bringing in “better individuals.”
Arsenal currently has several centre-back alternatives, including Gabriel Magalhaes, Ben White, Piero Hincapie, Cristhian Mosquera, and Riccardo Calafiori. The fact that the club is actively seeking defensive reinforcements suggests they are considering a summer swoop to bolster their squad depth. Guimaraes is scheduled to return for pre-season training on Friday, July 31.
Source: standard.co.uk