Transfer: Why I decided to sign Bruno Guimaraes – Arteta

Bruno Guimaraes, the Brazil midfielder, expressed his desire to "make history" at Arsenal after signing a reported £75 million deal from Newcastle on Saturday. The 28-year-old, who spent four-and-a-half seasons with Newcastle and served as their captain, said he felt excited about joining the Premier League champions. Arsenal, who ended a 22-year title drought last season, did not disclose the exact length of Guimaraes's contract but British media reports suggested a four-year deal with a further one-year option.

Guimaraes praised Arsenal's sporting director Andrea Berta and manager Mikel Arteta, saying he had been enthusiastic about the move since his initial contacts with them. He added that he wanted to win trophies and achieve his dream of making history at the club. Guimaraes is Arsenal's most high-profile signing of the transfer window, joining Illan Meslier and Christos Tzolis.

Berta stated that Guimaraes strengthens the heart of the team, combining quality and quantity and providing goals and assists consistently. The midfielder, who has scored 31 goals in 195 appearances for Newcastle, will compete for a place in Arsenal's midfield alongside Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Martin Zubimendi, and Mikel Merino.

Arsenal faces Manchester City in the Community Shield next Sunday, before starting their title defense against Coventry five days later. Newcastle begins their campaign against Liverpool on August 23.