Arsenal are now said to be closing in on one of their priority summer signings. The Gunners have been quiet in the transfer market so far, setting out their stall for Morgan Rogers but ultimately missing out to Chelsea, who were willing to pay much more for the Aston Villa star, breaking the British transfer record.
The Gunners have spent big in recent years, and while they are likely to spend a significant sum this summer, they need a top number 8 and a top left winger, so they must balance their spending between the two.
Only upgrades will do for Mikel Arteta, who already has an ultra-talented squad, and targets of such a high calibre are hard to find, especially for an affordable price. But when it comes to the midfielder signing, it looks as though Arsenal are close to getting their man.
Arsenal now closing in on Bruno Guimaraes transfer
Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes smiles as he walks into St James' Parkvia Reuters
Arsenal have been pushing to land Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes for much of the summer. The Gunners know Guimaraes is an established and proven number 8, both at Premier League and European level, and he was quickly selected as the priority midfield target this summer.
Amid ongoing talks with Newcastle United over a deal, The Sun's Jack Rosser is now reporting that Arsenal are 'close to agreeing' a deal worth £70million for the signing of Guimaraes.
Newcastle have already sold Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon this summer, so they were reluctant to lose Guimaraes, but the player is said to have pushed for an exit amid interest from Arsenal. The Brazilian is keen to compete for titles and play in the Champions League on a regular basis.
That has put the Magpies in a difficult position, and it looks as though Arsenal have been able to take advantage, albeit to the tune of £70million. Although, that fee could end up being a bargain, given Guimaraes is in his prime at 28 years of age, and he is already a proven player.
Howe was hopeful of Guimaraes stay
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe looks on glumly
Newcastle boss Howe called for Guimaraes to stay this summer, showing just how highly he was valued at St James' Park. He said: "He's a brilliant player, but more importantly, he's a fantastic person. He's our captain. Everyone at the football club loves him, and of course we hope he stays.
"We've had some really good conversations. His commitment has never been in doubt."
Guimaraes has been equally complimentary of his boss, saying last year: "It's tough to describe what a fabulous human being he is. You'd have to work with him every day to understand. He is by far the best European coach I've had." But football is a business, and players are always going to want to realise their ambition, and Arsenal are likely to be able to offer the opportunity of winning the biggest titles over the coming years.
Bruno Guimaraes Related
Breaking: Arsenal Close to Agreeing £70m+ Deal to Sign Bruno Guimaraes
The Gunners are said to be closing in on a deal