Arsenal is poised to submit a £70 million offer for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes, according to reports. The Brazil international has informed Newcastle of his wish to discuss terms with the Premier League champions should a fee be agreed upon.
Newcastle has maintained that Guimaraes is not for sale, expressing frustration with indirect proposals from his agents rather than formal bids. The club is aware of the 28-year-old midfielder's preference for a move to Arsenal this summer, but would require a significantly higher offer to sanction a transfer. Other Premier League clubs are also understood to have expressed interest in the player.
Arsenal has been given to understand that a deal for Guimaraes could be reached for approximately £75 million, though Newcastle would seek more to consider selling. The Magpies have not received any official offers and are citing the increasing market value of midfielders.
Guimaraes has two years remaining on his contract with Newcastle, with an option for a further 12 months, providing the club with contractual leverage. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is looking to strengthen his midfield ahead of the club's title defense, identifying Guimaraes as a primary target. After five seasons with Newcastle, the player is reportedly seeking a new challenge.
Newcastle aims to avoid a protracted transfer saga, similar to the situation with Alexander Isak last summer. The responsibility now lies with Arsenal to present a formal offer for the midfielder.