Newcastle United are reportedly prepared to fork out €40 million to sign Lyon midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, who is also a target for Arsenal.
According to L’Equipe, Newcastle United are ready to splash the cash on Bruno Guimaraes as Eddie Howe grows desperate to sign a new midfielder. They have already proposed a €40 million offer for the Brazilian, looking to take advantage of Lyon’s precarious financial situation.
Despite having seemingly limitless funds following the takeover from a Saudi Arabia-backed consortium, Newcastle have only been able to sign two players so far. Kieran Trippier joined from Atletico Madrid while Chris Wood was signed from Burnley. The two combined have cost Newcastle around €45 million.
The Magpies are prepared to fork out almost the same amount on a single individual in Bruno Guimaraes. Formerly of the Athletico Paranaense academy, the 24-year-old has enjoyed immense success since his €20 million move to Lyon in early 2020.
In just two years, he has racked up 71 competitive appearances for the club, becoming a linchpin in the Lyon midfield. He has impressed onlookers with his immense work ethic, coupled with his aggression and ability to win back possession for his team. A number six by trade, the midfielder is also capable of pushing forward if necessary.
Guimaraes’s versatility in the middle of the park had made him a top target for Arsenal earlier in the transfer window. Mikel Arteta was primarily targeting him as a potential alternative for Arthur Melo, whose deal is yet to be concluded.
The lack of action from Arsenal has paved the way for Newcastle United to emerge as a strong favourite to sign Guimaraes this month. As mentioned earlier, Eddie Howe is looking for midfield reinforcements in order to offer more quality support for Jonjo Shelvey in the middle of the park.
Bruno Guimaraes fits the bill well, given his age profile and style of play. While the Brazilian may find Newcastle United’s current sporting situation wildly unattractive, the Magpies are hoping to make amends by offering to quadruple his current salary at Lyon. It could be far too good an opportunity to pass up as far as the midfielder is concerned.
However, with just a few days remaining before the transfer window slams to a shut, Newcastle and Arsenal will need to make a swift approach if they are to get this deal over the line.
