‘I’m ready to join Arsenal ONLY if Arteta promise me that he will…..’ – Arsenal have been handed a transfer reality as Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes breaks silence on joining Arsenal in playing Champions League football next season

Eddie Howe has dismissed the idea that Bruno Guimaraes was saying farewell to Newcastle United fans after their victory over Brentford. Both Arsenal and Manchester City are interested in the midfielder.

Newcastle wrapped up their Premier League season with a 4-2 win in London. Guimaraes shone in the match, contributing two assists and scoring a goal himself.

At the end of the game, the Brazilian was seen waving and making gestures towards the Newcastle supporters, appearing somewhat emotional.

Guimaraes has a £100 million release clause in his contract, which could be activated next month. Both Manchester City and Arsenal are reportedly considering making a move for him.

However, Eddie Howe has urged fans not to overinterpret Guimaraes’ actions, expressing his hope that the player will remain with Newcastle next season.

When asked about the gesture, Howe said, “I don’t think it’s a wave goodbye. Bruno probably does that many times but it can be interpreted in a way that people watching decide that’s the case. Certainly from my side, I hope it’s not. He is integral to what we’re doing and is an inspirational player, we’re desperate to keep him.”

Striker Alexander Isak has also been the subject of transfer speculation. Regarding both players, Howe commented, “They’re two outstanding players. I’ve said many times this season they can make the difference and have made the difference at numerous times. It’s always about the team and how the team functions. The team gives them a platform to play well, and their involvement in the goals today was top class but you can’t forget their teammates who helped them.”

Guimaraes himself seemed to be looking ahead to the next season, as he wrote on his Instagram, “Finished the season with a memorable match! Three points, two assists, and one goal. Thank you for the support today and we hope it’s enough for us to be in Europe next season! Howay the lads.”

In addition, Guimaraes took a moment to respond to comments made by talkSPORT pundits Danny Murphy and Simon Jordan, who had doubted his athleticism earlier in the year. After his stellar performance against Brentford, Guimaraes posted a screenshot of a Sky Sports graphic showing he had covered the most distance of any player in the Premier League this season. He humorously captioned it with “he isn’t athletic” alongside a thumbs up and laughing emoji.