Arsenal Face Hefty Bruno Guimaraes Bill as Newcastle Dig In Their Heels

Newcastle United are in no mood to do Arsenal any favours over Bruno Guimaraes this summer, with the Magpies making clear they won't be shifting their prized midfielder without receiving a substantial fee.

The Brazilian has been the subject of intense speculation regarding a potential move south, with the Gunners among those keen to acquire his services. With just two years left on his Newcastle contract and the club facing a summer of financial manoeuvring following their failure to secure European football, Guimaraes finds himself firmly in the shop window—though Newcastle are determined to set the price tag themselves.

Arsenal's opening gambit of around £45m was dismissed almost immediately. According to reports, Newcastle have made it crystal clear they'll only entertain offers on their own terms, with no intention of accepting a cut-price deal for one of their most important players and current captain.

Speculation has swirled around a supposed £60m release clause embedded in Guimaraes' contract, though recent reporting suggests this may be wide of the mark. What is clear, however, is that there exists a threshold figure that might move Newcastle to the negotiating table—though it remains considerably higher than what Arsenal have thus far proposed.

Former Premier League chief scout Bryan King has assessed the situation and reckons the Gunners will need to find at least £55m if they're serious about striking a deal. King suggested that the figure could even climb higher, particularly if there's uncertainty surrounding Newcastle manager Eddie Howe's future at St James' Park. The midfielder's standing within the club—beloved by supporters and wearing the captain's armband—means Newcastle won't budge easily.

Arsenal remain keen to bolster their midfield options and add a left-sided attacking threat this summer, and Guimaraes represents exactly the calibre of player they're chasing. However, they'll need to substantially improve on their opening offer if they're to have any realistic chance of prising him away from the North East.