Arsenal are gearing up to re-enter talks with Newcastle United over midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, with a fresh round of discussions expected as early as next week.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has reported that the Gunners are preparing to hold direct negotiations with the Magpies in pursuit of the Brazilian international.
Arsenal are set to put forward an offer in the region of £70 million as they look to land their primary midfield target this summer window.
Romano confirmed the latest developments on his YouTube channel, providing a detailed update on where negotiations currently stand between the two clubs.
“Arsenal are expected to return to the table next week for Bruno Guimaraes,” Romano said, underscoring the north London club’s serious intent to push through a deal.
“Mikel Arteta considers Bruno a top priority. So Arsenal are expected to be back in direct negotiations with Newcastle. It is going to be an important week of new contacts.”
Romano also confirmed that personal terms have already been agreed with the 28-year-old, a significant development that strengthens Arsenal’s hand in any forthcoming negotiations.
“The player has already agreed personal terms with Arsenal. He is viewed as the perfect midfielder for Mikel Arteta; Arsenal are not giving up,” Romano added.
The urgency surrounding this deal has grown following Arsenal’s failure to sign Aston Villa winger Morgan Rogers, who instead joined Chelsea for a club-record £117 million fee.
Arsenal were reportedly in pole position for Rogers before Chelsea committed to a figure the Gunners were unwilling to match, making the Guimaraes pursuit even more critical.
Guimaraes has been described as “very special” by Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe, giving an indication of just how difficult it may be to prise him away from St. James’ Park.
Despite being hampered by a hamstring injury in the second half of last season, the midfielder still managed 15 goal contributions in the Premier League, demonstrating his considerable quality.
Operating as a defensive midfielder, Guimaraes averaged 6 duels and 2 tackles per game, adding almost 5 recoveries per match throughout the campaign.
The situation could become significantly more complicated should Manchester City lose Rodri, who has attracted interest from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, potentially opening up a rival bid for Guimaraes.
Romano has indicated that Arsenal’s next bid could yet be rejected by Newcastle, though a final agreement in the region of £80 million remains a plausible outcome given the circumstances.