John Obi Mikel backs Arsenal move for Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes

Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel believes Arsenal should pursue Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes, saying the Brazil international would be a more realistic signing than Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior.

Newcastle United are determined to retain Guimaraes despite interest from Arsenal, although reports in England suggest the 28-year-old is interested in a move to the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal have already had an opening offer rejected by Newcastle, according to those reports. The Gunners are now considering an improved bid in an effort to reopen negotiations and make progress towards a deal.

Mikel, who played for Chelsea, has backed the potential transfer and believes Guimaraes could significantly improve Mikel Arteta’s midfield. He also suggested the player could help Arsenal adopt a more attacking and entertaining approach.

“He’s going to be a good signing for Arsenal. I think him and Declan Rice in that midfield and Martin Odegaard is going to be good,” Mikel said on The Obi One podcast.

The former Nigeria international believes Arteta must make changes to the way Arsenal play during the new season. He said the manager would need to offer supporters a more attractive style of football after the criticism aimed at the team’s performances last season.

“Mikel Arteta knows he has to play some attractive football this season. You can’t play the same way you played last season,” Mikel said.

“He knows he has to entertain the Arsenal fans because last season, what the fans were watching, it’s not what they wanted to watch, it’s not what they paid for.”

Mikel’s comments come as Arsenal assess their midfield options and consider whether to increase their offer for Guimaraes. The Brazilian has become one of Newcastle United’s most important players since arriving at the club in 2022.

In that time, Guimaraes has made 195 appearances for Newcastle United, scoring 31 goals and providing 31 assists. His influence in midfield has made him a key part of the team, while his profile has attracted interest from Arsenal.

Newcastle’s refusal to accept Arsenal’s initial proposal has not ended the Premier League club’s pursuit. Arsenal are weighing up whether an improved bid could persuade Newcastle to reconsider their position, while the player’s reported desire to join the Gunners could become an important factor in the negotiations.

Mikel also contrasted the potential move for Guimaraes with Arsenal’s interest in Vinicius Junior, describing the Newcastle midfielder as a considerably more attainable target. He believes a midfield containing Guimaraes, Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard could give Arteta greater quality and balance.

For now, Newcastle United remain committed to keeping Guimaraes, but Arsenal’s interest and the player’s reported preference for a transfer mean the situation remains unresolved.