Kevin Campbell has claimed Bruno Guimaraes decided to pick a ‘relegation battle’ with Newcastle when he snubbed Arsenal, as he told the Highbury Squad.
During the January transfer window, when Newcastle signed the all-action midfielder, there was also talk of Arsenal possibly adding him to their ranks.
Even during Newcastle’s announcement video of Guimaraes, they hinted toward that Arsenal interest, as the player himself posted on Twitter.
At the time, Eddie Howe’s side were struggling and battling relegation, but for a number of weeks now, they have clawed their way out of trouble and they have been well-clear of safety.
Former Arsenal striker Campbell was talking about the calibre of player the club could land without Champions League football this summer, as he made it clear they still have the pull.
“He chose a relegation battle,” said Campbell. “Exactly (on Bruno choosing money). And the project.
“That’s how we have got our players (by Arsenal’s own project). Thomas Partey came to us without any Champions League football. Gabriel at the back came, no Champions League football.
“Arsenal is still a draw. We are. The difficulty comes is, who else is in the running? We are going to see (this summer).”
GUIMARAES SHOWING AT NEWCASTLE WHAT ARSENAL ARE MISSING
At the end of the day, Guimaraes is flying high at St James’ Park and those at the Emirates will be wondering why they didn’t do more to sign him.
The Brazil international, who ended up joining Newcastle for £40 million (Sky Sports), is exactly what Arsenal have needed during these past few weeks.
In actual fact, on Monday night, as the Magpies beat Arsenal to dent their Champions League hopes, Guimaraes showcased what they were missing by scoring and dominating proceedings in the middle of the park.
But that’s where Newcastle will count themselves lucky that they managed to beat off teams like Arsenal to his signature.
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