Eddie Howe has admitted that he is unsure about Bruno Guimaraes’ future at Newcastle United amid interest from Arsenal.
The Gunners are reportedly willing to pay around £60 million to sign the midfielder in the summer transfer window, though the Magpies are said to want at least £75 million.
Sky Sports News claim that Guimaraes has told the Tyneside outfit that he wants to leave St. James’ Park so that he can join Arsenal.
The report adds that the Premier League champions are yet to make direct contact with Newcastle, instead exploring the conditions of a potential deal through intermediaries.
Howe unsure about Bruno Guimaraes future amid Arsenal links
Howe says he does not know whether Guimaraes, who has not yet linked up with the squad for pre-season after competing at the FIFA World Cup, will remain at Newcastle.
“I’ve spoken to Bruno before, during and after the World Cup,” he said. “We have had some really good conversations. He’s just a fantastic person.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen with his future, that’s for other people to speculate about. There’s conversations I’m not part of.”
The situation has echoes of last year’s transfer saga involving Alexander Isak, who pushed for a move to Liverpool last summer. Newcastle refused to budge before relenting on the final day of the window, selling the Swedish striker to the Reds for a record-breaking £125 million fee.
“I don’t think it’s fair to compare,” Howe added. “You’ve got to look at it in its own right.
“He’s captain of our club and been an unbelievable player, through the whole time we have worked together. I speak on behalf of everyone at the club, we absolutely love him and of course everyone would love him to stay.
“He’s due back in the 31st, and there’s nothing to say he won’t be back.”
Guimaraes has been a key player for Newcastle since moving to the north east from Lyon for £40 million in 2022. The 28-year-old, who has registered 30 goals and 25 assists in 153 Premier League appearances, has a contract with the club until 2028.
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