Bruno Guimarães was due back at Newcastle on Friday, but the plan has now shifted to Sunday. Newcastle had already confirmed he would link up with the squad then changed that schedule, and the delay has sharpened the sense that something bigger is moving around him. Arsenal are now in advanced talks, with reports also saying personal terms have been agreed.
Newcastle's changing plan
The timing matters because Newcastle are flying to La Manga for just over a week of pre-season work before a friendly against Valencia next weekend. Guimaraes is now expected to travel to Spain on Sunday, and Newcastle sources say he is due to meet his new head coach Matthias Jaissle for the first time that day.
That was not the original plan. Friday was the date Newcastle had previously set for his return, and it is gone from the schedule now. TEAMtalk say talks with Arsenal have progressed to the point where a deal could be agreed before he is due to fly out on Sunday.
Arsenal's push for a deal
Fabrizio Romano said: "Arsenal want Bruno. Mikel Arteta considers Bruno a top priority, so Arsenal are expected to be back in direct negotiations with Newcastle from next week." Ben Jacobs added: "Arsenal in advanced talks for Bruno Guimaraes and are optimistic on striking a deal for north of £75m."
The fee talk is still being reported in different ranges, with some outlets putting it north of £75m and others in excess of £80m, so it is better to treat the price as fluid rather than settled. The player side looks more advanced. Romano said: "The player has agreed personal terms with Arsenal, so Arsenal and Bruno Guimaraes have an agreement."
Guimaraes' tournament form has also been strong. He has started five World Cup matches in 2026, contributed four goal involvements and is averaging 7.11. Arsenal, who finished first in the 2025 Premier League table, are trying to add a midfielder who has just come through a heavy international workload and still looks sharp.
Howe's position has not given Newcastle much comfort. Eddie Howe said, "We've spoken numerous times. Assurances? I don't think you can push too hard for those. I've said many times we want players who are committed, and Bruno has always been committed."
He added, "What will be, will be. We can't control the forces that are at play here." Newcastle finished 12th in the 2025 Premier League table, and if the Sunday travel plan holds, the next clear date in this story is when he is meant to report to Spain.
Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 4 outlets. How we work →
