Arsenal pursue Bruno Guimaraes amid Newcastle manager change

By Lewis Hartnell — 30 July 2026 — 3 min read

Arsenal are reportedly making progress in their pursuit of Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes. This development comes as Newcastle experiences significant changes, including the unexpected resignation of manager Eddie Howe.

Howe’s departure has introduced uncertainty into the transfer landscape for Newcastle. German manager Matthias Jaissle is expected to take over from Howe, who had been at the helm for five years. The former Newcastle boss had previously commented on Guimaraes’ commitment to the club.

Guimaraes’ Commitment and Newcastle’s Challenges

Following a 4-1 pre-season friendly defeat to Bristol City, Howe addressed questions regarding assurances about Guimaraes’ future at St. James’ Park. Howe stated that he had spoken with Guimaraes numerous times and that the player had always shown commitment. He highlighted Guimaraes’ outstanding training and game performances, expressing a desire for this to continue.

Despite these comments, Arsenal’s discussions with Newcastle, facilitated by intermediary Kia Joorabchian, are reportedly advancing, albeit slowly. It is understood that Guimaraes does not intend to force a move in the same manner as Alexander Isak did previously.

Newcastle is facing a challenging summer, similar to the previous year’s transfer window. The club has reportedly missed out on targets such as Johan Mazambi and Victor Munoz, encountering difficulties reminiscent of past attempts to sign players like Marc Guehi, Joao Pedro, James Trafford, and Hugo Ekitike. Howe leaves Newcastle with a 48.5 per cent win percentage across 231 games, having secured the Carabao Cup in 2025, the club’s first silverware this century.

The departures of Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon, coupled with Howe’s resignation, suggest that a potential move for Guimaraes could be called off to prevent further player exits from Newcastle.

Arsenal’s Transfer Activity and Manager’s Outlook

Arsenal has made two new additions to their squad so far this summer: Greece international winger Christos Tzolis and goalkeeper Illan Meslier. Tzolis is seen as a replacement for Leandro Trossard. The club has also taken the unusual step of confirming on their official website that they anticipate making more signings before the transfer window closes.

This statement appeared in an article previewing an upcoming friendly against Girona, indicating that further additions are expected. Manager Mikel Arteta also hinted at more signings, acknowledging the context of the current transfer window.

Arteta emphasised the club’s ambition to elevate its standing, which he believes requires a stronger squad and improved individual players. He noted that areas for growth and improvement have been identified to evolve their game. Arteta expressed optimism that concrete steps in the transfer market would be taken soon.

When questioned about the current squad’s readiness to defend their Premier League title, Arteta affirmed their commitment, stating that excellence must be their standard. He added that the team’s daily behaviour should reflect increased determination and ambition, building on their proven capabilities. Arteta concluded by stating the club’s aim to reach a different dimension.

Transfer insider Graeme Bailey reported that direct contact has occurred between Arsenal and Newcastle regarding Guimaraes. An anonymous source within football suggested that a move is now widely anticipated, with progress indicating it could happen relatively soon.

Previously, Arsenal had reportedly missed out on other transfer targets, including Julian Alvarez, who favoured a move to Barcelona, and Morgan Rogers, who joined Chelsea. Rumours surrounding Vinicius Junior also played a role in the player securing a new deal at Real Madrid.

The ongoing discussions for Guimaraes highlight Arsenal’s continued efforts to strengthen their squad during the current transfer period.

Source: fourfourtwo.com