Bruno Guimaraes has agreed personal terms on a five-year contract with Arsenal, according to reports from L'Equipe and ESPN Brasil. The Brazil international has informed Newcastle United of his desire to complete a summer move to north London, with the Gunners preparing a bid of £65 million. Newcastle are holding out for at least £70 million before sanctioning a deal.
Midfield reinforcement for champions
The 28-year-old has emerged as Mikel Arteta's top midfield target as Arsenal looks to strengthen after ending its 22-year wait for a Premier League title last season. Guimaraes, who joined Newcastle from Lyon for £40 million in January 2022, is eager to make the move happen. A new bid is expected imminently.
His former club Lyon are set to benefit from a 20 percent sell-on clause included in the original transfer, meaning they would receive a significant portion of any fee Arsenal pays.
First summer signing confirmed
Arsenal have also today confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer, making him the first new face through the door at the Emirates this summer. The former Leeds United shot-stopper is expected to serve as David Raya's chief understudy, with Kepa Arrizabalaga considering his options.
Meslier said: 'I'm extremely happy. It's a great day for me because I have just joined the champions. For me, Arsenal is the biggest club in England. I'm very happy and very proud to join Arsenal. I cannot wait to show the love that I've got for this badge, and I cannot wait to win trophies with this team, because this is a club that needs to lift trophies again and again.'
Hincapie deal triggered
In addition, Arsenal have already triggered their option to sign Piero Hincapie from Bayer Leverkusen on a permanent deal, further bolstering the squad for next season. The club's transfer activity signals a clear intent to build on their title success.
