Bruno Guimarães has traded Newcastle for Arsenal in a £75 million move that adds power, aggression and quality to Mikel Arteta’s midfield. The Brazil international has signed a four-year contract with an option for another season, and he arrives with one clear goal: winning trophies.
Guimarães admitted the decision was difficult after three-and-a-half memorable years at Newcastle. He joined from Lyon in 2022 and made 195 appearances, scoring 31 goals and helping the club win the Carabao Cup.
“This is one of the toughest decisions of my life,” Guimarães said. “I fell in love with this place. I really mean that.”
Now, however, the 28-year-old believes the time is right for a fresh challenge. “I want to win trophies, I want to make history and I think I’m in the right place to do it,” he said.
At Arsenal, Guimarães will join a midfield led by Declan Rice. The pair have had plenty of heated battles on the pitch, but Rice has already offered a playful welcome to his new team-mate.
“Come here and please no more fights, now we’re friends,” Rice messaged him, according to Guimarães.
The signing gives Arteta another player who can operate as a defensive midfielder or drive forward from the centre. His energy, passing range and ability to win duels should add another layer to an Arsenal side chasing major honours.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta praised his mentality and versatility. “He combines quality with quantity,” Berta said, highlighting his regular goals and assists.
The move also strengthens Arsenal’s Brazilian connection. Guimarães already knows Gabriel Magalhães, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus, with Gabriel Magalhães particularly eager to see him arrive.
For Newcastle, the transfer marks another major departure during a turbulent summer. The club have now sold more than £240 million worth of talent, including Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali, while Eddie Howe has also left.
Guimarães leaves with genuine affection for the supporters. Arsenal, meanwhile, gain a self-described “warrior” who believes he has arrived at the right moment.
“I will give you my best, I promise,” he told Arsenal fans. “I’ll never give up.”
