Manchester United could complete their dream midfield rebuild by signing Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes.
The Athletic recently revealed that Guimaraes has informed Newcastle United of his desire to leave and join Arsenal.
The Gunners have indicated a willingness to pay up to £60 million for Guimaraes.
He has two years remaining on his contract, and Newcastle have no intention of selling their skipper.
Man United should offer more money than Arsenal
Tottenham Hotspur decisively beat the Red Devils to Mateus Fernandes after matching West Ham United’s staggering £85 million valuation.
The Portuguese midfielder reportedly favoured a move to Old Trafford, but United refused to meet the asking price.
Spurs seized the opportunity by paying the full fee and offering an attractive financial package, leaving United empty-handed.
If Guimaraes genuinely becomes available, United should be prepared to outbid Arsenal and make a statement signing.
United have already reached agreements to sign Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Ederson from Atalanta.
The Brazilian enjoyed another superb individual campaign last season, contributing nine goals and seven assists in 41 appearances across all competitions.
He has also made 48 senior appearances for Brazil and bagged four assists in the FIFA World Cup.
Ederson remains untested in English football and Santos is still a work in progress, but Guimaraes would offer immediate quality, leadership and Premier League pedigree from day one.
To convince Guimaraes to choose Old Trafford over Arsenal, INEOS may have to make him one of the club’s highest-paid players.
United may also need to submit an offer in the region of £70m-£80m before Newcastle even begin to consider negotiations.
Stats from Fotmob.com