Arsenal and Man City keen as Bruno Guimaraes release clause deadline looms | OneFootball

Arsenal and Manchester City remain interested in Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes ahead of his release clause expiring in a month’s time.

The Brazilian was a standout performer on Tyneside once again in 2023-24, having cost £40million when he signed from Lyon two-and-a-half years ago.

Prospective bidders can sign Guimaraes by activating his £100m release clause before June 24, when it is set to expire according to UOL Esporte.

Reports in the Brazilian media indicate interest in Guimaraes’ camp in receiving an offer from at least two of Newcastle’s Premier League rivals.

Arsenal are long-term admirers of the 26-year-old and want to sign a new midfielder in the summer.

City, meanwhile, are also keen and will likely readjust their transfer plans amid the ongoing uncertainty over target Lucas Paqueta and his charges for betting breaches.

Paris Saint-Germain are another interested party but may first have to focus on replacing Kylian Mbappe when the transfer market opens, with Guimaraes reportedly wanting to stay in the Premier League anyway.

The player’s £100m fee can reportedly be paid in three annual installments making a deal more viable for clubs at risk of exceeding Profit & Sustainability Rules.

Newcastle are adamant that they will only accept the clause in full however some clubs believe they can cut a deal closer to the £80m mark.

“I think it is something you don’t necessarily have control over, then I don’t tend to worry about it,” Newcastle manager Eddie Howe said in April of the clause.

“I think, it goes without saying, my thoughts on Bruno’s situation are that we want to keep him, we want to build our team around him. He’s an integral part of what we are doing.

“I think his form has been very good. He seems very happy and settled. He will be thinking about, of course, a busy summer ahead and where hopefully we can take the team with him as a big part of it. But, as I say, we are not in control of it, so let’s see.”