Bruno Guimarães was not on Newcastle’s flight to Murcia on Friday lunchtime as the team headed to their pre-season training camp in southern Spain. The midfielder, believed to be in Brazil, reportedly appears closer to a transfer to Arsenal.
Meanwhile, Matthias Jaissle is completing his move from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahli to become Newcastle’s new head coach. He is expected to arrive at the La Manga complex this weekend to meet the squad.
Jaissle, 38, is understood to be finalising a four-year contract after an £8m compensation package was agreed with Al-Ahli. One of his initial tasks will be to discuss Guimarães's future, with suggestions the Brazilian could opt for a London flight if Arsenal makes a bid of around £75m.
In other transfer news, Newcastle is reportedly close to securing a £26m deal for Braga and Czechia goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek, which could lead to Nick Pope's departure. Manchester United is exploring a move for Lewis Hall, while Joelinton is believed to be keen on a move to the Middle East.