Arsenal are set to step up their pursuit of Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes this week, according to talkSPORT. Mikel Arteta and Eddie Howe are at the Emirates Stadium and St James’ Park, respectively.
The Gunners are ready to test the Tyneside club’s resolve with an improved formal offer exceeding £70 million.
Mikel Arteta has long admired the 28-year-old Brazilian international, identifying him as the ideal partner to anchor Arsenal’s midfield alongside Declan Rice. After internal discussions at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal executives are keen to accelerate direct talks with Newcastle to secure a marquee midfield signing.
While Newcastle remain eager to retain their talismanic midfielder, particularly after the departures of Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon, Guimaraes has internally indicated a desire to take on a new challenge in North London. Broad terms on a potential contract have already been outlined between Arsenal and the player’s representatives.
Earlier informal inquiries in the region of £60 million were swiftly rejected by Newcastle, who insist on a higher valuation to sanction a move—although their preference remains to keep their star midfielder.
Speaking recently after a pre-season fixture, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe admitted that while he values Guimaraes immensely, decisions regarding the midfielder’s long-term future involve factors beyond his immediate control.
Anticipating a potential departure, Newcastle have already begun contingency planning in midfield. The Magpies recently finalised the signing of Aladji Bamba from Monaco and have made inquiries for Botafogo midfielder Danilo, who is eager for a Premier League return, as potential cover should Guimaraes leave.
With Guimaraes currently on extended post-World Cup leave before his scheduled return on July 31, direct negotiations between the two clubs are expected to reach a crucial phase in the coming days as Arsenal push to complete the deal.