Bruno Guimaraes' father speaks out as Arsenal close in on Newcastle midfielder

Bruno Guimaraes’ father has publicly addressed his son’s World Cup heartbreak, posting a message on Instagram in the days following Brazil’s round-of-16 exit — a development that coincides with reports of Arsenal agreeing personal terms with the Newcastle United midfielder.

Guimaraes missed a decisive penalty against Norway earlier this month, with Martin Odegaard’s side producing a shock victory to eliminate Brazil. Dick Guimaraes took to social media in the aftermath of the defeat, breaking his silence as speculation over his son’s club future continues to intensify.

The 27-year-old has reportedly informed Newcastle that he wants to move to north London this summer, and Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is said to have made progress on personal terms with the Brazilian alongside fellow target Morgan Rogers.

Eight Arsenal players face delayed returns

Arsenal’s pre-season preparations will be complicated by the World Cup’s final stages, with eight of their players still involved in the semi-finals. David Raya, Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi, William Saliba, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke and Declan Rice are all set to feature in semi-final fixtures this week.

Under FIFA regulations, all players are entitled to a minimum 21-day rest period following their elimination from the tournament. Should any of the eight be knocked out at the semi-final stage, they would not be expected back in training until after Arsenal’s pre-season friendly against Real Betis on 5 August in Dublin — also ruling them out of the Girona friendly on 1 August.

The Emirates Cup fixture against Borussia Dortmund on 9 August represents the earliest realistic return date for those players who do not reach the final and are not carrying fitness concerns. Rice, Saka and Saliba have all been managing physical issues in recent weeks, meaning their returns could be pushed back further.

Busy window expected at the Emirates

Despite no major signings being confirmed yet, Arsenal are expected to accelerate their transfer activity significantly this month. Last July, the club completed six signings, and while a repeat volume is considered unlikely, Berta and head coach Mikel Arteta are understood to be targeting several high-profile additions before the season opener — the Community Shield against Manchester City on 16 August.