Liverpool explored a potential move for Bruno Guimaraes earlier in the summer.
Bruno Guimaraes is preparing to return to Newcastle United amid continued speculation over his future. The Brazil international is believed to have informed Newcastle that he wants to leave this summer, although he is yet to hold face-to-face talks with manager Eddie Howe or the club’s hierarchy.
Guimaraes is currently enjoying his post-World Cup holiday after Brazil were eliminated by Norway in the last 16 on July 5.
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Players are entitled to a mandatory 21-day break during the summer, meaning the midfielder is expected back at Newcastle next week.
The 28-year-old is set to join the squad for their pre-season training camp in La Manga on July 31 and could feature in the friendly against Valencia on August 8.
Liverpool explored a potential move for Guimaraes earlier in the summer, but their interest did not progress beyond talks with the player’s representatives. Arsenal, however, have made the midfielder a priority target and have held discussions with his camp.
According to BBC Sport, Arsenal are preparing a £70million offer for Guimaraes, who is open to joining the Premier League champions.
Newcastle are aware of the midfielder’s preference, but it remains unclear whether Arsenal’s valuation will be enough to convince the Magpies to sell.
The Gunners are determined to strengthen their squad with top-quality additions this summer but remain unwilling to overpay.
They previously ended their interest in Morgan Rogers after Aston Villa’s £117 million valuation was matched by Chelsea, despite Arsenal having valued the forward at around £80 million.
A similar approach is expected with Guimaraes, as Arsenal maintain a strict valuation despite their strong desire to sign the Newcastle captain.
Newcastle United are enduring a busy summer transfer window, having already sold Anthony Gordon to Barcelona for £69.3million and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham for £100million.
The Magpies have also invested heavily in their squad, spending a combined £83.5million on Bazoumana Toure, Sean Steur and Ewen Jaouen.
Guimaraes, who represented Brazil at the World Cup, has racked up 195 appearances across all competitions for Newcastle since joining the club, scoring 31 goals.
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Bruno Guimaraes