Arsenal and Newcastle United have dominated headlines this summer, with the two clubs at the centre of speculation surrounding midfielder Bruno Guimarães.
It was reported that the Newcastle captain had requested to leave St James’ Park following interest from the Premier League champions.
However, there has been little progress since David Ornstein revealed the major development earlier this month.
The Newcastle star was expected to return to pre-season training with his teammates this afternoon, but that has now been delayed until Sunday, when he is expected to join the squad at their training camp in Spain alongside new manager Matthias Jaissle.
However, a fresh report from France is now suggesting that the two clubs have reached an agreement over the financial package required to complete the transfer.
What’s the latest news on Bruno Guimarães?
According to French outlet L’Equipe, Arsenal and Newcastle have reached an agreement worth €90m (£77m), with bonuses and add-ons still being negotiated.
The publication claims the deal is in its final stages and that, despite initially wanting €100m, Newcastle have compromised to reach an agreement with the Gunners. Lyon are also expected to receive around €8m from the sale.
What next for Newcastle United?
While Newcastle supporters will be incredibly disappointed by the potential departure of their much-loved club captain, there may be some relief that the situation is reaching a conclusion and the club can begin planning their next steps.
With a month remaining in the summer transfer window, Newcastle’s recruitment team still have time to not only replace Guimarães but also build a squad capable of giving Jaissle the strongest possible start to his tenure.
Once the deal is signed and sealed, attention will turn towards Newcastle’s efforts to rebuild their midfield, with FC Porto’s Victor Froholdt reportedly among the targets being considered.
What can Arsenal expect from Guimarães signing?
The Premier League champions have endured a relatively quiet transfer window so far, but they will be determined to not only retain their title but also take their Champions League ambitions to the next level.
A near miss against Paris Saint-Germain in the final earlier this summer will have been difficult to accept for Arsenal after an impressive campaign that ultimately ended in a penalty shoot-out defeat.
After finally ending their two-decade wait for a Premier League title, Mikel Arteta will be determined to maintain that winning mentality and inspire his squad towards securing their first Champions League trophy.
The addition of Guimarães would bring energy, leadership and an elite competitive mentality to Arsenal’s midfield.
His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch, combined with his pressing intensity, technical quality and experience in high-pressure matches, would make him a valuable asset next season.
The 28-year-old also possesses the leadership qualities that Arsenal have occasionally lacked, and he could become one of the most influential figures both on and off the pitch as the club look to achieve their biggest ambitions.
With that being said, Guimarães’ arrival would represent a statement of intent from Arsenal and a major blow for Newcastle’s plans under Jaissle.
While replacing a player of his importance will be challenging, the Magpies must use the opportunity to reshape their midfield, while the Gunners will hope their latest addition can help bridge the final gap between domestic dominance and European glory.
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