Arsenal are working to finalise a deal for Bruno Guimaraes by the end of the week, according to reports. The midfielder has already agreed personal terms with the Gunners and has told Newcastle he wants to join Mikel Arteta's side this summer.
Newcastle frustrated by lack of direct talks
Newcastle have grown frustrated over Arsenal's failure to hold direct negotiations for their captain. An opening bid of £55 million, communicated through intermediaries, was rejected last month, followed by a £70 million proposal that was also turned down.
Progress on £75m deal?
TalkSPORT reports that Arsenal have made progress with Newcastle over a deal worth in excess of £75 million, with the club making Guimaraes a priority and aiming for an agreement before the end of July. However, Chronicle Live claims Arsenal have not held club-to-club talks, and Newcastle are reportedly 'growing tired' of suggestions an improved offer has been made.
Guimaraes is set to report for pre-season training on Friday ahead of Newcastle's training camp in La Manga next week.
Howe on Guimaraes future
Speaking last weekend, Eddie Howe said he could offer no guarantees over Guimaraes' future. 'We've had some really good conversations, before the World Cup, during the World Cup and after the World Cup,' Howe said after a 1-1 draw with Gateshead. 'What we speak about obviously has to remain private but just a great player, a great person. I don't know what's going to happen with Bruno's future. That's for other people to speculate about, but also conversations that I'm not part of. We don't want to lose our best players, that's an obvious statement to make. So, losing those big two is painful for us, and difficult.'
