Newcastle United are stepping up plans to sign a new midfielder as Bruno Guimarães edges closer to completing his move to Arsenal.
Softfootball understands that the Magpies are expected to make midfield reinforcement a priority under incoming head coach Matthias Jaissle, with the Brazilian captain now on the verge of ending his three-and-a-half-year stay at St James’ Park.
Guimarães has reportedly made it clear that he wants to join Arsenal following the Gunners’ Premier League title-winning campaign, with negotiations accelerating after months of speculation.
The proposed transfer is expected to be worth around €90 million and follows a series of rejected offers before the two clubs eventually reached an agreement in principle. The midfielder has also missed parts of Newcastle’s pre-season preparations, further fueling expectations that his departure is imminent.
His expected exit leaves a significant void in Newcastle’s squad, prompting the club to begin searching for a high-quality replacement capable of fitting Jaissle’s energetic and attacking style of play.
Replacing a player of Guimarães’ influence will be one of the first major challenges facing the new manager, with Newcastle determined to remain competitive despite losing one of their most important players.
