Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel believes Bruno Guimaraes would be an ideal addition to Arsenal’s midfield as the Premier League champions close in on a move for the Newcastle United captain, Footynaija.com reports.
The Gunners are reportedly edging towards a full agreement for the Brazil international, with negotiations between both clubs progressing after personal terms were sealed. While Newcastle rejected Arsenal’s initial offer, the deal is expected to be worth around £80 million, with Guimaraes keen on completing the move to the Emirates.
Speaking on the Obi One Podcast, Mikel backed Arsenal’s pursuit of the 28-year-old, insisting the Brazilian possesses the qualities needed to elevate Mikel Arteta’s midfield alongside Declan Rice and captain Martin Odegaard.
Related Post
“He’s going to be a good signing for Arsenal. I think him and Declan Rice in that midfield and Martin Odegaard is going to be good.”
The former Chelsea midfielder also urged Arteta to evolve Arsenal’s style of play despite last season’s success, arguing that supporters deserve a more entertaining brand of football in the upcoming campaign.
“Mikel Arteta knows he has to play some attractive football this season. You can’t play the same way you played last season.”
“He knows he has to entertain the Arsenal fans because last season, what the fans were watching, it’s not what they wanted to watch, it’s not what they paid for.”
Should the transfer go through, Guimaraes is expected to operate as Arsenal’s deep-lying midfielder, freeing Rice and Odegaard to influence games further up the pitch as Arteta looks to build on the club’s recent domestic success.
