Bruno Guimarães is intensifying efforts to secure a move to Arsenal after Brazil’s World Cup exit, with fresh talks taking place between the midfielder’s representatives and the north London club.
The Newcastle United captain is understood to have made Arsenal his preferred destination and hopes his future can be resolved before he is due to report back for pre-season.
According to reports, Guimarães would ideally like to complete a transfer before returning to Newcastle, although the Magpies remain determined to keep one of their most influential players.
Despite speculation suggesting Newcastle could accept around £60 million, sources close to the club insist that valuation is well below their expectations. Instead, it is believed an offer approaching £100 million would be required before serious negotiations could begin.
Brazil’s earlier-than-expected elimination from the World Cup has accelerated discussions over the 28-year-old’s future.
With his international campaign now over, Guimarães’ representatives have renewed contact with Arsenal, reinforcing the player’s desire to join Mikel Arteta’s squad this summer. Arsenal remain confident they are leading the race despite interest from several other top clubs.
Manchester City continue to admire the Brazilian and have previously explored the possibility of signing him, but Arsenal are regarded as the favourites should Newcastle eventually agree to sell.
Strengthening central midfield remains one of Arsenal’s priorities during the transfer window.
Sporting director Andrea Berta is working on several high-profile deals, including moves for Morgan Rogers and Christos Tzolis, while also looking to add another elite midfielder despite the presence of Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Martin Ødegaard and Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Guimarães is viewed as the ideal addition, particularly with Christian Nørgaard expected to depart, as Arteta looks to build a squad capable of challenging across all competitions.
Newcastle, however, have shown no sign of softening their stance.
The club continue to regard Guimarães as one of the world’s best midfielders and remain keen to keep him at St James’ Park, even as speculation over his future continues to intensify.
With Arsenal preparing their next move and Newcastle refusing to lower their asking price, one of the Premier League’s biggest transfer sagas appears set to dominate the remainder of the summer window.
