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Arsenal are increasingly confident of signing Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimarães this summer, with multiple sources indicating that the Brazilian midfielder is keen on a move to the Premier League champions.
Guimarães has emerged as one of Arsenal's top transfer targets during the current window, and the 28-year-old is understood to have made it clear that he would welcome a switch to the Emirates Stadium. While an agreement has not yet been reached, there is growing optimism that the two clubs can strike a deal in the coming days.
The midfielder joined Newcastle from French side Lyon in January 2022 and has become one of the club's most influential players. Since arriving at St James' Park, he has scored 31 goals in 195 appearances while establishing himself as a key figure in the team's midfield and eventually taking on the captain's role.
Arsenal submitted an offer worth £70 million earlier this month, but Newcastle are expected to demand a higher fee before considering a sale. The North London club are reportedly prepared to improve their bid, with a package that could rise to around £80 million.
Despite increasing speculation surrounding the transfer, sources insist Arsenal have not yet submitted an improved proposal. Newcastle also maintain that no formal club-to-club negotiations have taken place regarding Guimarães' potential departure. The midfielder is due to return to pre-season training with Newcastle in the coming days unless progress is made on the deal.
Arsenal's pursuit of Guimarães follows their decision to end interest in Morgan Rogers after refusing to exceed their valuation of the England international. Chelsea eventually completed a £117 million deal for the Aston Villa attacker after Arsenal chose not to match the offer despite being given the opportunity.
For Newcastle, losing Guimarães would represent another significant setback during a summer of major changes. The club has already seen midfielder Sandro Tonali complete a move to Tottenham Hotspur, while winger Anthony Gordon has joined Barcelona, leaving important gaps in the squad.
The uncertainty comes shortly after manager Eddie Howe stepped down following five years in charge of Newcastle. His departure is not believed to have influenced Guimarães' desire to leave, with Arsenal's interest predating Howe's exit. Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli manager Matthias Jaissle is widely expected to become Newcastle's next head coach as the club prepares for a new chapter while attempting to rebuild its squad ahead of the new Premier League season.
