Bruno Guimaraes has vowed to “make history” at Arsenal after completing a reported £75 million ($101.2 million) move from Premier League rivals Newcastle on Saturday.
The Brazil international spent four-and-a-half seasons at Newcastle, where he established himself as a key player and eventually became club captain.
Arsenal, who ended a 22-year wait for the English top-flight title last season, did not disclose the length of Guimaraes’ “long-term” contract. However, British media reports said the 28-year-old had signed a four-year deal with an option for an additional year.
“I feel good, I feel amazing. I’m glad for the opportunity,” Guimaraes told Arsenal’s media channels.
“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.”
The midfielder said he was excited about the move from his first discussions with Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta and manager Mikel Arteta.
“Since the first time I spoke to Berta and Mikel, I was excited,” Guimaraes said. “I just felt inside of me that I needed a new challenge in my life, and I think being an Arsenal player is going to be an exciting challenge in my life.
“I think after playing two World Cups, I’m at the point in my life where I need a challenge like this.
“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.”
‘Strengthening the heart of our team’
Guimaraes becomes Arsenal’s most prominent signing of the transfer window so far, joining fellow arrivals Illan Meslier and Christos Tzolis.
Berta said the Brazilian’s arrival would further strengthen Arsenal’s midfield and provide manager Arteta with greater tactical flexibility.
“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.
“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.”
Guimaraes had previously been linked with Arsenal in January 2022, when he eventually left Lyon for Newcastle.
He now joins the Gunners after making 195 appearances for Newcastle and scoring 31 goals during his spell at St James’ Park.
