Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes after increasing their offer to €90 million, excluding bonuses, according to L’Equipe.
The French publication reports that negotiations between the two Premier League clubs have entered their final stages, with only performance-related bonuses and agent commissions still to be agreed before the transfer can be completed.
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Arsenal have been pursuing the Brazil international for several weeks and are said to have already reached an agreement with the 28-year-old over a contract that would keep him at the Emirates Stadium until 2031.
The Gunners initially struggled to meet Newcastle’s valuation of their captain. Their opening offers of €70 million and €80 million were both rejected, with Newcastle holding out for a fee close to €100 million.
However, Arsenal returned with an improved proposal worth a guaranteed €90 million on Friday, a bid that has reportedly brought the Magpies closer to accepting a deal. Discussions are continuing over the structure of add-ons and the commissions due to agents involved in the transfer.
If the remaining details are finalised in the coming days, Guimaraes is expected to complete his move to north London. The midfielder has reportedly wanted the transfer for more than a month after informing Newcastle’s hierarchy and coaching staff of his desire to leave.
Guimaraes sought a move because he wanted to play in the UEFA Champions League, a competition Newcastle failed to qualify for. The Brazilian still has two years remaining on his contract at St James’ Park.
Newcastle have already taken steps to prepare for his possible departure by signing Aladji Bamba from Monaco. The club have also parted ways with head coach Eddie Howe, who was understood to have a close relationship with Guimaraes.
The Brazilian midfielder remains an important figure for his national team under Carlo Ancelotti. He has earned 48 international caps and scored three goals for Brazil.
The transfer could also benefit Guimaraes’ former club, Lyon. L’Equipe reports that the French side stand to receive more than €8 million through a sell-on clause if the deal is completed.