Arsenal could still sign Bruno Guimaraes this summer despite a transfer from Newcastle looking unlikely. The Brazil international has seen a £100million release clause become active in his contract recently with that remaining present until June 24.
Any interested club can agree to pay the triple-figure fee and would thus be given permission to discuss a transfer with Guimaraes. Arsenal and Manchester City have shown interest with Paris Saint-Germain also as an option, however the midfielder would prefer to remain in the Premier League.
football.london understands that it is unlikely he moves to north London in the summer with the Gunners’ stance on his release clause already clear. “Arsenal have no plans to trigger the (£100m) release clause,” journalist Ben Jacobs wrote.
“They will only consider a move if the price drops. Martin Zubimendi remains a more concrete possibility. Guimaraes has given every indication he’s happy at Newcastle, but an exit can’t be discounted due to the clause.” The Magpies’ financial worries could help Arsenal in that regard with it possible they are forced to make a marquee sale.
Guimaraes and Alexander Isak, who has also been linked to Arsenal, undoubtedly fit into that category and concerns over profit and sustainability rules have increased following the weekend. Manchester United’s FA Cup triumph saw them handed a Europa League spot with Chelsea then occupying the Europa Conference League spot Newcastle earnt which has seen the latter miss out entirely.
Decreasing Guimaraes’ asking price could therefore be done with that financial blow in mind and if that does occur, Arsenal may strike with a double secret weapon also emerging. Guimaraes is currently on international duty with Brazil, alongside Arsenal duo Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli.
A video has since emerged of the three players greeting each other and exchanging pleasantries with it certainly possible the Gunners can use Martinelli and Gabriel to convince international teammate Guimaraes of a move to Arsenal while they are away together.
As alternatives to Guimaraes, Arsenal have looked at Amadou Onana, Martin Zubimendi and Youssouf Fofana with it looking increasingly likely Thomas Partey departs.
