Arsenal set to make £70m bid for Newcastle's Guimaraes

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reports that Arsenal are preparing a £70m bid for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes, with discussions over a possible transfer said to be continuing and to have moved forward in recent days. The report says the 28-year-old Brazil midfielder is a leading target for Arsenal and is interested in moving to the north London club, while Newcastle are understood to know his preference.

According to the BBC, it is not yet clear whether the planned offer will satisfy Newcastle’s valuation. Arsenal are described as willing to pursue high-level additions after winning last season’s Premier League title, but also as determined not to exceed their own price limits. The article compares that stance with Arsenal’s interest in Morgan Rogers, who joined Chelsea from Aston Villa for £117m after Arsenal reportedly declined the chance to match the bid and had valued him at £80m.

The BBC also reports that Arsenal are looking at defensive and attacking reinforcements beyond Guimaraes. Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa is said to be the club’s preferred defensive option, and Arsenal have asked about his availability. Como defender Jacobo Ramon is also reportedly on a list, although contract clauses are said to make that move difficult.

In attack, the report says Arsenal continue to assess options after missing out on Rogers. Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez is described as an ideal target, but his reported preference for Barcelona and a potentially very high fee are major obstacles. Paris St-Germain winger Bradley Barcola has also been explored as a possible signing.