Arsenal’s Bruno Guimaraes pursuit hinges on £100m release clause | OneFootball

Arsenal‘s longstanding interest in Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes is back, with the Gunners once again eyeing the Brazilian.

However, their pursuit comes with a significant caveat: Arsenal is reportedly only willing to sign him if they can avoid triggering his €117.5 million release clause. This stance apparently stems from a desire to avoid paying more than their record transfer fee, set by the signing of Declan Rice last summer.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – APRIL 13: Newcastle United player Bruno Guimaraes sprays his face with water before the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur at St. James Park on April 13, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that while Arsenal admires Guimaraes, they consider Real Sociedad‘s Martin Zubimendi a more realistic option. The Gunners’ reluctance to meet the release clause puts them at a disadvantage, as Manchester City is reportedly prepared to pay the hefty sum.

Newcastle United‘s stance on Guimaraes‘ valuation further complicates the matter. The Magpies are adamant about not selling their star midfielder for anything less than his release clause, which is only valid until the end of June. This limited window for activation could make it even more challenging for Arsenal to secure the deal.

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Arsenal‘s interest in Guimaraes dates back to January 2020 when he was playing for Athletico Paranaense in Brazil. The Gunners were among several European clubs vying for his signature, but work permit issues and financial constraints complicated any possible deal.

CURITIBA, BRAZIL – SEPTEMBER 11: Bruno Guimarães of Athletico PR celebrates after scoring the first goal of his team during the match Athletico PR v Internacional as part of Copa do Brasil Final, at Arena da Baixada Stadium on September 11, 2019, in Curitiba, Brazil. (Photo by Lucas Uebel/Getty Images)

With PSG reportedly dropping out of the race, the battle for the Brazilian midfielder seems to have narrowed down to City and Arsenal. City‘s willingness to meet the release clause gives them a distinct advantage over Arsenal, who are reluctant to enter a bidding war.