Arsenal have reportedly agreed terms with Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, while also completing the signing of free-agent goalkeeper Illan Meslier, as the club accelerates its summer transfer activity ahead of the Premier League title defence.
Guimaraes Agreement Reached
According to French outlet L'Equipe, the 28-year-old Brazilian has agreed a five-year contract with Arsenal. Guimaraes is pushing for a move to north London after Brazil's last-16 exit to Norway at the World Cup. The Gunners are preparing an offer of around £60 million to Newcastle, who have insisted the player is not for sale. However, Newcastle have previously sanctioned sales after taking a similar stance, including Sandro Tonali's £100 million move to Tottenham this summer.
Meslier Joins on Free Transfer
Arsenal have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Illan Meslier, 26, following his departure from Leeds United. Meslier spent seven years at Leeds, making 215 appearances and keeping 70 clean sheets. He became a free agent after his contract expired. 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 cannot wait to show the love that I've got for this badge. I cannot wait to win trophies with this team."
Title Defence Preparations
Arsenal's only senior outfield addition so far is Ecuador's Piero Hincapie, who completed a £34.5 million move from Bayer Leverkusen after a loan spell. With pre-season training approaching, activity is expected to accelerate. Sporting director Andrea Berta has a reported £250 million transfer budget to strengthen the squad. Several arrivals and departures are anticipated as Arsenal look to fend off challenges from Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United.
