Bruno Guimaraes joins Arsenal from Newcastle

Bruno Guimaraes has completed his move from Newcastle United to Premier League champions Arsenal, saying he felt ready for a new challenge.

The 28-year-old Brazil midfielder has signed a four-year contract with Arsenal, with the option of a further 12 months.

Guimaraes had made it clear earlier in the summer that he wanted to join Arsenal and left Newcastle’s pre-season training camp in La Manga, Spain, earlier this week to complete the transfer after talks between the clubs reached an agreement.

“This move is very tough because Newcastle means so much to me,” Guimaraes said.

“But I wanted to experience something new in my life. I feel ready for a new challenge for myself and my family.”

The midfielder said he had received messages from several of his new team-mates, including fellow Brazil international Gabriel and England midfielder Declan Rice.

Rice, who has previously faced Guimaraes in midfield, joked: “Come here and please no more fights, now we’re friends.”

“I’m at the point of my life, I think I need a challenge like this,” Guimaraes said. “I want to win trophies, I want to make history and I think I’m in the right place to do it. I’m so excited to start.”

Guimaraes joined Newcastle in January 2022 when the club were battling relegation and quickly became an important part of their revival under former manager Eddie Howe.

He was appointed captain and became the first Newcastle skipper in 70 years to lift a major domestic trophy when the club beat Liverpool in the 2025 Carabao Cup final.

Newcastle said they wished Guimaraes and his family well following his departure.