Arteta: Selling Norgaard was the hardest part of the Guimaraes deal

Mikel Arteta has admitted there was genuine regret behind Arsenal's decision to sell Christian Norgaard, with the midfielder's departure clearing the way for Bruno Guimaraes to arrive. Arsenal are set to complete a £75 million deal for the Newcastle midfielder, a move that forced Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta to reassess their options in the center of the pitch. Norgaard, signed from Brentford for £10 million only a year ago, was considered surplus to requirements and has joined Everton for £7 million. It was a sale the Premier League champions did not complete without some reluctance. "He played a tremendous role for us," Arteta said. "When I brought him here I said that he could be our glue player. He has an incredible capacity to bring players together and keep the standards high. When he played, he had some really good moments as well. But I understand to fulfil that role for long periods is not easy. He had a massive opportunity with a manager and a club I know really well. I wish him all the best and thank you." Norgaard featured on 20 occasions for Arsenal but was used only seven times in the Premier League, totaling 106 minutes of league action. His single top-flight start came on the final day of the season against Crystal Palace. At 32, the Denmark international had already built a strong reputation at Brentford, where he spent six seasons and was valued for his defensive work in midfield. Guimaraes represents a clear upgrade in profile. The Brazil international can protect the backline, but he also brings more drive and dynamism in possession, offering Arteta a genuine two-way presence in the middle of the park. What remains to be seen is how much Arsenal miss the unseen influence of Norgaard's personality.