Arsenal are prioritising a move for Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes this summer.
Guimaraes has already informed Newcastle that he wants to leave the club, potentially allowing Arsenal to enter negotiations with the Magpies over his signature.
The Daily Mail now claim that Newcastle are ‘astonished‘ that sporting director Andrea Berta has not contacted the club over a deal for Guimaraes.
The Magpies are reluctant to lose their captain, but it is believed that Berta could now strike a deal worth £75 million, with Guimaraes prepared to leave.
Arsenal to ramp up Guimaraes pursuit
Guimaraes has opened the door to a move to Arsenal by informing Newcastle that he wants a new challenge.
Mikel Arteta’s side are now expected to submit a formal offer for the Brazilian in the coming days. Arsenal previously made a verbal offer through intermediaries, but it was rejected.
The Gunners are reportedly ready to test the Magpies’ resolve with a £65 million offer for the Brazil international, but they are unlikely to accept the bid.
Guimaraes has two years left on his contract, but Newcastle can extend it by a further 12 months, potentially forcing Arsenal to pay the club’s asking price.
The north London side have long admired the Brazilian star. They were first linked with him before his move to Lyon in 2020 and then again before he joined Newcastle.
Guimaraes’ ability to ‘keep possession and interpret space‘ is said to be one of the key reasons Arsenal remain keen to sign him.
The Rio de Janeiro-born midfielder’s composure under pressure, bravery on the ball and attacking threat make him an even more attractive target.
Guimaraes is already considered one of the best in his position in the Premier League. His signing could prove pivotal as Arsenal look to defend the league title and compete on all fronts next term.