Newcastle are in the middle of a muddle before a ball is even kicked and it doesn’t look like it’s going to end anytime soon.
Eddie Howe has gone and it’s increasingly likely their Captain Bruno Guirmaraes (28) is on the verge of a move to the Emirates.
Sources say that both clubs are very close to agreeing a fee with the player who is on record for expressing his desire to move to the premier league champions.
The fee is expected to be between £70 million -£80 million but they are still working to sign off the deal.
It’s been a difficult negotiation to do in many ways because of the World Cup and the behind the scenes drama at St James’s, where it’s thought club and manager were at odds over the direction of the club and the sale of key players.
Even with agents and intermediaries out of the way it boils down to two clubs at a table finalising the package.
Then there’s the fine details to clarify and just how the payment is structured and over what period.
Arsenal could potentially agree the entire transfer fee but it could also be broken down into more than one payment with bolt on’s and bonus payments.
Although some may not like me saying it, Guimaraes is an upgrade on Norgaard and even Zubimendi. The Spaniard faded at the backend of last season, gave away goals and generally looked behind the beat.
I’m not saying he needs to leave but consistency and focus are required if you are to retain the premier league trophy.
Can Bruno manage the big step up
What’s in the Guimaraes locker ? –
Firstly, he’s an aggressive ball winner providing the conduit between defence and attack.
The Brazilian has a good engine and his presence would probably benefit Declan Rice in an attacking sense.
Secondly, he is a deep lying playmaker/baller which will help in a host of tight games against the low block because of his ability to work his way out and push forward or lay the ball to a player in an advanced position.
Thirdly, he’s not generally wasteful, his movement is good helping him to disappear off the oppositions radar and allowing him to make that last minute dash into the box for a strike at goal or a quick lay off.
To be honest with you I am far happier to see Guimaraes arrive in North London than I would have been the extortionate Rogers.
I’d also place his transfer above that of Alvarez and Vinicius Jnr for quality and value combined.