Guimaraes Transfer: Staveley, Ghodoussi Clash on Claims

Arsenal is reportedly preparing to submit a formal offer for Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes, adding a new layer of complexity to the player's future. Reports indicate a public disagreement has surfaced concerning claims about how this transfer saga has unfolded behind the scenes.

Specifically, claims suggesting intermediaries were informed Newcastle would consider offers around £50 million if Champions League qualification failed have been contested. These suggestions were reportedly linked to representatives' interactions with former co-owner Amanda Staveley.

However, Staveley and her husband, Mehrdad Ghodoussi, have strongly refuted these accounts. Ghodoussi labeled the reporting as "Utter nonsense," while Staveley, after speaking with the reporter, agreed the story wasn't entirely baseless but denied any promises were made to Guimaraes regarding his exit.

Despite these disputes, Arsenal remains interested in the 28-year-old. However, a significant valuation gap exists, with Newcastle's price potentially near double the £50 million figure initially suggested. Previous Arsenal proposals in the region of £55 million and £65 million were reportedly rejected.