Arsenal are preparing a second offer to tempt a move for Bruno Guimaraes, according to the Daily Mail , as the Gunners make the Newcastle midfielder one of their top targets this summer.
It comes after an initial proposal for the Brazilian was turned down by the Magpies , with Mikel Arteta keen to get a deal over the line for him in the coming weeks.
The Arsenal midfield ranks have come into focus this summer for potential reinforcements, with an expected exit for Christian Norgaard likely to create space in the squad for an arrival.
With Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, and Myles Lewis-Skelly at his disposal, Arteta is now seemingly looking for another midfield generalist who can offer some quality.
Guimaraes is now in their sights, and another move is being prepared.
Arsenal Eye Bruno Guimaraes Deal
Arsenal don't appear to be slowing down in their pursuit of Guimaraes this summer, as the Daily Mail reports that a second offer is now expected from the Premier League champions.
That is despite the club being told, via intermediaries, that Newcastle are not willing to entertain a sale for the Brazilian. He enters the final two years of his contract this summer, coming as a crunch point for most clubs to consider a sale or an extension to the deal.
The report claims that the player's stance is currently unknown, and it's unclear whether he will push for an exit or whether he would be open to a new contract.
The 28-year-old has been described as a "top target" for Arteta, however, which may prompt Arsenal to be persistent in their approach for Guimaraes.
It remains to be seen how much the second offer from the North London club will be, and whether it will be enough to create a change of heart at St. James' Park.
However, it is showing a rapid push from Arsenal to get a deal over the line.
Arsenal Challenge For Bruno Guimaraes
Arsenal may face a prolonged challenge in trying to sign Guimaraes this summer, as Newcastle aren't under pressure to sell the midfielder, at the moment.
The key sale of Anthony Gordon to Barcelona may have freed up some spending power, while Sandro Tonali continues to be linked with an exit.
That may prevent an exit for Guimaraes, though the contract situation could play a prevalent part in any possible negotiation in the coming weeks.
They could be ready to hijack the transfer for the Premier League champions
The two years remaining on his contract mean that this summer could be the final chance for Newcastle to cash-in at a maximum valuation for the star.
However, if he isn't agitating for an exit, then there may be no need to do so.It could, therefore, depend on the player's stance and whether he pushes for the transfer to Arsenal.
With the World Cup taking most of his focus at the moment, that stance may not be revealed for a few weeks yet.
Transfer News & Rumours
Transfer News & Rumours