Jamie Carragher predicts Newcastle may cash in on whoever commands the highest fee, with Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes both linked with moves away and Arsenal keen
Jamie Carragher reckons Newcastle might be forced to sell whichever player fetches the highest price, with both Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes – firmly on Arsenal’s radar – potentially leaving.
The Magpies have already lost Anthony Gordon this summer, with the winger making the switch to Barcelona, but further key departures could follow as they face a concerning player drain.
Tonali was touted for a move away from St James’ Park in January and has already seen Tottenham lodge an unsuccessful bid. Arsenal and Manchester City are also monitoring the Italian midfielder, who has been regarded as the most probable Newcastle midfielder to depart.
However, recent speculation has emerged regarding Guimaraes leaving, despite his captain’s armband. Arsenal have evaluated the possibility, and Carragher suspects the Magpies may ultimately accept the highest offer for either player, with both commanding valuations of approximately £100million.
So far, Arsenal have seen a £55m approach rebuffed, but a second move for the Brazilian star – currently away at the World Cup – is being lined up.
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Discussing what lies ahead, former Liverpool defender Carragher told Sky Sports: “Not a great season for them last season, but it just almost feels like that team is sort of breaking up now.
“Anthony Gordon has gone, Tonali is looking like he may move on. I think there’s been a bid for Arsenal as well today for Bruno Guimaraes.
“Guimaraes is a wonderful player. He’s loved up there, maybe he’s getting a little bit frustrated at seeing all his mates getting linked with moves or looking like they’re going, and maybe he’s put a story out – or he and his people have, I don’t know – or maybe it is a genuine bid from Arsenal.
“I can understand that. As I said, I think he can play for the top teams – he’s playing central midfield now for Brazil in the World Cup, so that shows the quality the lad has. But I think if Anthony Gordon goes and Tonali, I think if you lose any more, it’s probably too much then, really.
“I think Guimaraes and Tonali both leave a huge hole for Newcastle to fill. So, I think they probably lose one of them, and it would probably come down to who is getting offered the most money for.”
Newcastle’s Saudi Arabian ownership made an immediate impact upon their arrival at the club, yet questions have since been raised regarding their long-term dedication to the project in the North East.
