Arsenal icon sends message to Newcastle transfer target Guimaraes

Arsenal Invincibles stalwart Gilberto Silva has been speaking to Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes. The two Brazilians have been completing media duty after yet another impressive year for Guimaraes, but it comes at a time when Silva’s former club remains keen on signing him.

With a £100million release clause – that is only active for a short period whilst the summer window is open – Guimaraes is one of the most in-demand midfielders in the world. He was also on Arsenal’s radar before his move to Newcastle.

After Eddie Howe’s side ended up failing to qualify for any form of European football owing to Manchester United’s surprise FA Cup victory on Saturday, there is added financial pressure coming. The Magpies are already restricted by Premier League rules which meant they were unable to complete any deals in January.

It is now thought that they will have to sell before they buy heading into the summer. As one of the standout players yet again, Guimaraes is attracting attention.

A deal is not expected to be easy to complete though, and Newcastle are keen to keep hold of their man. However, with Silva spending time with Guimaraes, a possible inside track has appeared.

Taking to Instagram to post about their meeting, Silva wrote, “Bruno Guimaraes took part in ESPN’s fourth Premier League chat. Bruno became one of the key players in the Newcastle United team through the quality of his passing and his fierce performances on the pitch, which we can see in every duel with his opposition.

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“Wishing you a lot of success in your career Bruno, and may you continue to bring joy to all Newcastle supporters and continue to represent Brazil brilliantly in the Premier League.”

Guimaraes responded to the post, saying, “Phenomenon”. The 26-year-old is very much in Howe’s thoughts regardless of any Arsenal crossover though.

“Yes [I see Guimaraes and Alexander Isak as part of the plans], I do,” he said before the season ended. “I’m planning for them to be here. Yes, all my planning is with them in the squad.”