Arsenal are poised to test Newcastle's resolve with a £70m bid for Bruno Guimaraes, but the Magpies have made clear they have no intention of selling their captain.
The Brazil international, 28, has emerged as the Gunners' priority midfield target and is known to be keen on the move, believing it would give him a realistic chance of winning major trophies. However, Newcastle are digging in, insisting there has been no direct approach from Arsenal and that they will not be forced into a sale.
“Arsenal ready £70m bid for Bruno Guimaraes but Newcastle refuse to sell captain”
Arsenal's stance is shaped by a strict valuation policy. The north London side are unwilling to overpay despite their desire to sign Guimaraes — a hardline approach that already cost them a deal for Morgan Rogers. The Gunners valued the Aston Villa winger at £80m, but Chelsea swooped in with a £117m offer that Arsenal declined to match.
While talks over personal terms with Guimaraes are not expected to be an issue, it remains to be seen whether £70m will be enough to change Newcastle's mind. The midfielder turned 28 in April, and Arsenal may be reluctant to bid higher for a player approaching 29.
If the move stalls, Arsenal have other targets in their sights. They have enquired about Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, their first-choice defensive target, and hold an interest in Como's Jacobo Ramon — though clauses in the Spaniard's contract make a deal difficult. In attack, the Gunners dream of signing Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez, but his desire to join Barcelona and a potential British-record fee pose significant obstacles. Paris St-Germain winger Bradley Barcola has also been explored.
For now, the focus remains on Guimaraes. Arsenal are determined to strengthen the squad that won the Premier League and reached the Champions League final last season. Whether they will raise their bid or move on remains to be seen.
