Newcastle now expect to sell to Arsenal despite 1st bid rejection

Newcastle United now anticipates selling midfielder Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal, despite the club rejecting Arsenal's initial formal bid. The Brazilian player joined Newcastle's training camp in Spain on Monday, confirming his arrival on Instagram. Sources report that Newcastle had previously turned down Arsenal's opening bid for Guimaraes, but both clubs are now engaged in official club-to-club discussions.

The Telegraph's Sam Dean and Luke Edwards note that while the final agreement remains uncertain, both teams now anticipate Guimaraes will join Arsenal this summer. Initially seeking around £100 million, Newcastle is reportedly open to a bid between £70 million and £80 million. Guimaraes' desire to leave Newcastle is cited as a factor in Eddie Howe's departure as the club's head coach.

Arsenal remains in talks with Newcastle, and The Daily Mail's Simon Jones indicates the Gunners have scheduled a medical for Guimaraes this week, believing the transfer to proceed. However, the deal could be finalized only if Newcastle receives a more favorable offer. Despite playing a defensive midfield role, Guimaraes made 41 appearances for Newcastle last season, scoring nine goals and providing eight assists.

Newcastle's 12th-place finish in the league, without European football, contrasts with Arsenal's league title and Champions League final appearance, explaining the 28-year-old's interest in a transfer.