‘I don’t know how he’ll fit into the starting XI’ - Ex-Newcastle star questions Arsenal’s move for Guimaraes

Arsenal are on the verge of a major summer signing, having reached a £75 million agreement with Newcastle United for their captain, Guimaraes. 

The Brazilian international has completed his medical and will soon join up with the Arsenal squad.

However, his move has prompted questions from former professionals about his potential role at the Emirates.

Despite Arsenal's swift action to secure the highly-rated midfielder, ex-England star Chris Waddle has expressed surprise at the transfer, questioning where Guimaraes would fit into Mikel Arteta's established system.

Waddle highlighted the existing strength in Arsenal's midfield, which was a cornerstone of their Premier League title-winning campaign.

"I don’t know where Bruno Guimaraes will play for Arsenal if he makes the move to north London," Waddle told BetBrain. 

"Declan Rice had a more advanced role last season and Martin Zubimendi sat deeper. They had a good midfield system last year, so you have to question where he’ll fit in."

"Guimaraes is an all-round player, he isn’t scared in possession, and he’s got the legs to go up and down the pitch," he added. "But Arsenal have already got very similar players so I’m quite surprised they’ve gone all in for him."

Waddle, however, suggests the acquisition might be more about building depth for a multi-front campaign rather than an immediate upgrade to the starting lineup.

"There’s no doubt he’s a good acquisition if they’re going to be challenging for three or four trophies next season, as they’ll need to rest players," Waddle noted. "I don’t know how he’ll fit into the starting XI, though."

Should he depart, Guimaraes will leave a lasting legacy at Newcastle, having captained the club to its first domestic trophy since 1955 with their Carabao Cup win in 2025.