Bruno Guimaraes has officially joined Premier League titleholders Arsenal, moving from Newcastle United in a deal reportedly worth £75 million ($101.2 million). The 28-year-old Brazilian midfielder, who served as captain during his four-and-a-half-season tenure at St. James’ Park, is eager to begin a new chapter with the Gunners.
While Arsenal did not specify the exact duration of the contract, describing it only as a “long-term” agreement, British media outlets report the deal spans four years with an option to extend for an additional season. This move follows Arsenal’s historic campaign last year, which saw the club clinch its first top-flight English league title in 22 years.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the transfer, Guimaraes told club media that he feels “amazing” and is grateful for the opportunity. He emphasized that the squad’s depth will be vital given the demanding schedule ahead, noting his hope that the team can achieve their collective dreams.
The midfielder revealed that his desire to join the club was cemented during initial discussions with manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta. Guimaraes, who has competed in two World Cups, stated that he felt the need for a fresh challenge to continue his pursuit of major trophies and to “make history” at his new home.
Sporting director Andrea Berta praised the acquisition, highlighting that Guimaraes’s arrival significantly bolsters the team’s core. Berta noted the player’s versatility, describing him as a midfielder capable of operating both defensively and in a box-to-box capacity, consistently contributing goals and assists.
Berta added that the signing will allow Arteta to evolve the team’s tactical approach while fostering internal competition, which is viewed as essential for maintaining the high standards necessary to compete for major honors. Guimaraes is Arsenal’s most prominent signing this window, joining other new arrivals Illan Meslier and Christos Tzolis.
The transfer marks a long-standing interest from the Gunners, who had previously been linked with Guimaraes in January 2022 before he opted to move from Lyon to Newcastle. During his time with the Magpies, he made 195 appearances and scored 31 goals.
Under the guidance of manager Eddie Howe, Guimaraes was a key figure in ending Newcastle’s 56-year major trophy drought by winning the 2025 League Cup. He also played a pivotal role in the club’s two separate qualifications for the Champions League.
Reflecting on his departure, Guimaraes described it as one of the most difficult decisions of his career. He expressed immense pride in the progress the team made together after he arrived at a time when the club was in a challenging position. His exit follows the departures of Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali, marking a significant transition for the northeast club ahead of the new season.
“We have tough games to play this season so the squad is going to be very, very important and I’m hopeful we can achieve our dreams.”
