Guimaraes reveals only ‘concrete’ January offer came from Newcastle

Former Arsenal transfer target Bruno Guimaraes has revealed that his only “concrete” January offer came from Newcastle United.

Multiple reports suggested that the Brazilian was one of the Gunners’ top midfield targets. However, the Magpies swooped in and signed the 24-year-old with little competition for his signature.

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He made his first start for his new team against Southampton on Wednesday night, scoring the winning goal with an excellent back-heel finish.

When asked about the rumours linking him with a move to Arsenal, Guimaraes revealed that he did have conversations with other clubs before Newcastle came in with a “concrete offer”.

“I did speak to some other clubs,” he told Sky Sports (quotes via 90min).

“But the only concrete offer came in from Newcastle and I really wanted to come here. I’ve always wanted to play in the Premier League and on top of that it was the start of a new sporting project for the club,” he added.

“If a club has a project and wants to aspire to the maximum, then it’s going to involve winning the Champions League. It’s the biggest club competition in the world and obviously we’re keen on winning the Premier League as well.”

Speaking last month, Guimaraes said that he expects Newcastle to become a “big power in world football” in the coming years.

“This is an historic club with a great tradition and a beautiful history, I have no doubts about my decision to come to Newcastle,” he said.

Asked how the project had been outlined to him, he said: “They were very up front and honest about it. They didn’t disguise that the main objective and challenge was remaining in the Premier League this season.

“But in the seasons coming, the objective is to be in the Champions League and eventually to win the Champions League.

“I believe in the project, I believe in everything they spoke to me about and I am really happy to be a part of this project.”