Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit of Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes by opening direct club-to-club negotiations over a summer transfer.
The Premier League champions have moved beyond discussions through intermediaries and are now holding formal talks with Newcastle as they attempt to secure one of Mikel Arteta’s top transfer targets.
An initial Arsenal offer has already been rejected by Newcastle, with the Magpies making it clear they value the Brazil international more highly. Although neither club has confirmed the amount of the opening bid, Arsenal are expected to return with an improved proposal as negotiations continue.
Despite the setback, there is growing confidence among those involved that an agreement can eventually be reached.
Bruno, who is under contract at St James’ Park, is understood to have made it clear that he wants to join Arsenal, giving the North London club encouragement as talks progress.
The 28-year-old remains with Newcastle’s squad in Spain, having travelled to the club’s pre-season training camp in La Manga following his involvement with Brazil at the FIFA World Cup. His presence with the squad has not halted negotiations over his future.
Arsenal identified Guimaraes as a priority signing after winning last season’s Premier League title and reaching the UEFA Champions League final. Arteta has made no secret of his desire to strengthen his squad further before the new campaign begins.
Speaking recently about Arsenal’s transfer plans, the Spaniard said:
“We are very active.”
He added:
“We are very ambitious in what we want to do.
“We need to increase the competition internally.
“We need to make sure we identify the things that we don’t have in the team.”
Newcastle remain reluctant to lose one of their most influential players, particularly after Guimaraes contributed nine goals and eight assists in all competitions last season.
However, Arsenal believe the midfielder’s desire to move could prove decisive if the two clubs can agree on a transfer fee. Newcastle are reportedly seeking a package closer to £80 million, while Arsenal are expected to increase their offer in the coming days.
With negotiations now taking place directly between the clubs, Arsenal are hopeful a breakthrough can be reached before the start of the new Premier League season.
