Guimaraes targets Arsenal history after £75m Newcastle move

Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes has vowed to “make history” at Arsenal after completing a £75 million move to the Premier League champions from top-flight rivals Newcastle United.

The 28-year-old midfielder, who spent four-and-a-half seasons at Newcastle and captained the club, has signed a four-year contract with Arsenal, with an option for a further 12 months.

Arsenal did not disclose the length of the deal but confirmed the signing as their most high-profile addition of the summer transfer window so far.

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Guimaraes said joining the reigning English champions represented a new challenge in his career and revealed that conversations with Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta and manager Mikel Arteta convinced him to make the move.

“Since the first time I spoke to Berta and Mikel I was excited,” Guimaraes said in an interview with Arsenal’s media channels.

“I just felt inside of me that I need a new challenge in my life and I think to be an Arsenal player is going to be an exciting challenge in my life.

“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.”

The Brazilian admitted the decision to leave Newcastle was one of the toughest of his life after establishing himself as a key player and captain during his time at St James’ Park.

“I feel good, I feel amazing. I’m glad for the opportunity,” he said.

“We have tough games to play this season so the squad is going to be very, very important and I’m hopeful we can achieve our dreams.”

Guimaraes also pointed to his experience of playing at two World Cups as part of the reason he felt ready for a new challenge.

“I think after playing two World Cups, I’m at the point of my life, I think I need a challenge like this,” he said.

Arsenal strengthen midfield

The move further strengthens an Arsenal squad that ended a 22-year wait for the English top-flight title last season.

Arsenal sporting director Berta said Guimaraes would add quality, versatility and competition to Arteta’s midfield options.

“With Bruno joining us, we are further strengthening the heart of our team,” Berta said.

“As we have all seen, Bruno can play as a defensive midfielder and as a box-to-box player. He combines quality with quantity and has provided goals and assists for his team every year.”

Berta added that the Brazil international would give Arteta greater flexibility as Arsenal pursue more major trophies.

“Bruno will allow Mikel to further develop our playing style and will also increase our internal competitiveness, which is essential for maintaining the standards required when we are aiming to win major trophies,” he said.