Arsenal have lodged a fresh £75m proposal for Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, according to reports. The offer comprises a guaranteed £70m plus £5m in bonuses and add-ons.
According to ESPN Brazil, the bid falls short of Newcastle's valuation of their captain, but the chances of reaching an agreement are high, with negotiations expected to advance this week. The Gunners are said to have used intermediaries in their discussions with the Magpies rather than a direct formal offer.
Guimaraes Keen on Move
The 28-year-old has reportedly informed Newcastle management of his desire to leave if a deal is struck with Arsenal, viewing the north London club as a significant step forward in his career. However, the Mirror reports that Guimaraes will not attempt to force a move if the two clubs fail to agree on a fee.
Centre-Back Signing Close
ESPN also reports that Arsenal are nearing the completion of a centre-back signing. Discussions concerning an undisclosed defender are said to be further along than the potential Guimaraes deal. While the defender's identity remains unknown, Arsenal have been linked with several options following William Saliba's back injury, which is expected to sideline him for at least the first few months of the season.
John Stones was a potential target but is poised to join Inter Milan this week. Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa has also been monitored, but recent reports indicate the clubs are far apart in their valuation of the England international.
Arsenal's Summer Business
Mikel Arteta's only signings so far are Piero Hincapie's £34.5m permanent move, Illan Meslier on a free transfer, and Christos Tzolis for £34m from Club Brugge. The club had also been linked with Vinicius Jr, but he now looks set to stay at Real Madrid. Other rumoured targets include Julian Alvarez and Lille striker Matias Fernandez-Pardo.
