Arsenal are edging closer to securing the signature of Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes this summer, according to Brazilian outlet UOL Esporte.
The Gunners have earmarked the Brazil international as their priority midfield target. They have already made a couple of proposals.
UOL claim that the club have had two bids worth £55 million and £65 million rejected, and they are now preparing a third transfer offer.
The Gunners are set to make a final bid of around £72m. The midfielder is ‘very close’ to leaving the Magpies for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Guimaraes does not plan to push for an exit, but there is anticipation that a transfer will materialise.
Arsenal edging close to Guimaraes deal
The Magpies have had a difficult summer with the departures of Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali for a combined package of £170m.
This has put them in a good financial position, which means Guimaraes may not be permitted to depart unless a significant bid is made.
The midfielder’s current deal expires in June 2028 with an option for another 12 months.
In our view, the Tyneside outfit have the best opportunity to secure a premium fee this summer and £72m represents a good deal for Guimaraes, who turns 29 in November.
The Magpies currently have a not-for-sale stance on their captain, but ultimately they would not want to keep a player whose focus is elsewhere.
Guimaraes has been one of the club’s most successful players. Newcastle could eventually give the green light for him to pursue a bigger challenge.
The 28-year-old would be a fabulous acquisition for Arsenal. He made 15 goal contributions in the league last term despite a lengthy injury absence.
Guimaraes also impressed defensively with six duels won alongside two tackles and four recoveries, and he would be an assured starter for Arsenal.
The Brazilian would be a level-raiser in midfield and would also offer Arteta the chance to rest Declan Rice, who is managing neutral hamstring pain.
Neither Arsenal nor Newcastle may want a lengthy saga on Guimaraes. It could be a matter of days before a final transfer decision is made on him.
Stats from Transfermarkt & Sofascore