LONDON, Aug 8 — Premier League champions Arsenal have completed the signing of Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes for a reported fee of £75 million (RM414 million), the two clubs announced today.

The Brazil international, who spent four-and-a-half seasons with Newcastle, has signed a “long-term contract” with the Gunners, who ended a 22-year wait for a top-flight English league title last season.

Guimaraes is Arsenal’s most high-profile signing of the transfer window so far, joining fellow new arrivals Illan Meslier and Christos Tzolis at the Emirates Stadium.

“With Bruno joining us, we are further strengthening the heart of our team,” said Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta.

“As we have all seen, Bruno can play as a defensive midfielder and as a box-to-box player. He combines quality with quantity, and has provided goals and assists for his team every year.

“Bruno will allow Mikel to further develop our playing style and will also increase our internal competitiveness, which is essential for maintaining the standards required when we are aiming to win major trophies.” — AFP