Arsenal are reportedly preparing to hand Bruno Guimarães the iconic No. 28 shirt as the Brazilian midfielder edges closer to completing his blockbuster move from Newcastle United in one of the biggest Premier League transfers of the summer.
The Gunners have reached an agreement with Newcastle United over a deal worth around £75 million, with the midfielder expected to complete the final formalities before being officially unveiled at the Emirates Stadium. Reports indicate that personal terms have already been agreed, paving the way for Mikel Arteta to welcome one of Europe’s finest midfielders into his title-winning squad.
According to the latest reports, Arsenal have reserved the No. 28 jersey for Guimarães, a number that carries significance from earlier stages of his career and one he is expected to wear as he begins a new chapter in North London. The shirt is expected to feature prominently during his official unveiling, with supporters eagerly awaiting confirmation from the club.
The arrival of Guimarães represents another major statement of intent from Arsenal, who are determined to build a squad capable of defending their Premier League crown while also mounting a serious challenge for the UEFA Champions League. After several impressive seasons at Newcastle United, the Brazilian has developed into one of the most complete midfielders in world football, combining technical brilliance, relentless work rate and exceptional leadership.
Since arriving at Newcastle from Lyon in January 2022, Guimarães has established himself as the heartbeat of the Magpies’ midfield. His ability to dictate the tempo of matches, break opposition attacks and create opportunities from deep made him one of the Premier League’s standout performers. He also captained Newcastle during a successful period that saw the club re-establish itself among England’s elite.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has long admired the Brazilian international and reportedly identified him as one of his priority midfield targets. Arteta believes Guimarães possesses the perfect blend of defensive discipline and attacking creativity to elevate Arsenal’s midfield to another level.
The prospect of Guimarães lining up alongside Declan Rice has already generated enormous excitement among Arsenal supporters. Many believe the duo could become one of the strongest midfield partnerships in European football, combining physicality, intelligence and technical quality.
Martin Ødegaard is also expected to benefit significantly from Guimarães’ arrival. With the Brazilian capable of progressing possession from deeper areas, Arsenal’s captain could receive the ball in more advanced positions, allowing him greater freedom to influence matches in the final third.
Defensively, Guimarães’ arrival offers Arsenal another elite ball winner capable of shielding the back four while initiating attacks with his exceptional passing range. His composure under pressure and ability to escape tight situations make him one of the most press-resistant midfielders in the game.
The decision to award him the No. 28 shirt further underlines the club’s confidence in his importance to the project. Shirt numbers often carry symbolic value for footballers, and Arsenal’s willingness to hand Guimarães the number immediately reflects the status he is expected to hold within the squad.
For Newcastle United, losing their captain marks the end of an unforgettable era. Guimarães became a fan favourite through his passion, commitment and consistent performances, helping transform the club into regular contenders for European football. Although supporters will be disappointed to see him leave, many acknowledge his immense contribution during his time at St James’ Park.
The transfer also provides Newcastle with significant financial resources to reinvest in their squad as they prepare for the next stage of their rebuild. Meanwhile, Arsenal believe they have secured one of the finest midfielders available on the market.
Brazilian supporters will also be watching closely as Guimarães prepares for another chapter in the Premier League. With the 2026 World Cup behind him, the midfielder remains one of Brazil’s most influential players and will hope his move to Arsenal allows him to compete for the biggest honours at club level.
If completed as expected, Guimarães’ unveiling is likely to attract worldwide attention. Arsenal fans are already anticipating seeing the Brazilian wearing the famous red and white jersey with the No. 28 on his back as he walks out at the Emirates Stadium for the first time.
The signing would represent yet another ambitious move from Arsenal, sending a clear message to both domestic and European rivals that the North London club intends to remain at the summit of English football. For Bruno Guimarães, wearing the No. 28 shirt could mark the beginning of what both player and club hope will become another successful chapter in an already outstanding career.