Arsenal Pursues Bruno Guimaraes in Direct Talks with Newcastle

Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit of Bruno Guimaraes, entering direct negotiations with Newcastle United over a move for the midfielder and club captain.

What had been a courtship conducted through intermediaries has moved into the open. The two clubs are now in formal talks, with the 28-year-old pushing for a switch to the Premier League champions.

Guimaraes wants the move. That much is clear. Those close to the discussions believe the saga is edging towards a conclusion, even if the outcome is not yet nailed down.

Arsenal previously tested Newcastle’s resolve with a £70m offer lodged via intermediaries last month, a bid that fell short of what the Tyneside club are prepared to accept. A Newcastle source has since indicated that an offer from Arsenal has been rejected, underlining the gap that still exists between the clubs’ valuations.

The London side are expected to raise their proposal if they are to land one of the league’s most influential midfielders, with Newcastle under no pressure to sell their captain cheaply.

Talks are active. The stance on both sides is firm. Now the question is simple: how far are Arsenal prepared to go to get their man?