Arsenal have secured the services of Bruno Guimarães in a £75m deal, marking him as the most expensive midfielder aged 28 or older. The Brazilian, who will be 28 before the end of next year, is considered a transfer for the present rather than the future.
Guimarães's ability to consistently play and his versatility across midfield in Mikel Arteta's 4-3-3 formation are highlighted as key reasons for the significant investment. This comes as Declan Rice is managing long-term nerve pain and Martin Ødegaard played only 40% of possible Premier League minutes last season.
The former Newcastle player is known for his skill in breaking up attacks and winning free-kicks. Since his Premier League debut in February 2022, Guimarães has suffered 410 fouls, over 100 more than any other player in England during that period. He has also scored 12 set-piece goals, tying for the most by a midfielder or forward in the Premier League since early 2022, and now links up with fellow Brazilian Gabriel, one of the defenders above him in set-piece goals.