Arsenal are reportedly accelerating their pursuit of Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes after the Brazil international indicated a desire to leave St. James' Park. The Gunners, who previously scouted Guimaraes and his former Lyon teammate Sandro Tonali, now see the 28-year-old as a primary midfield target.

Discussions regarding a potential transfer have seen an initial fee of £60m mentioned. While Newcastle has not received a formal offer, Arsenal is expected to make a move. The Magpies are reluctant to part with Guimaraes, their captain, especially after already selling midfielders Tonali and Anthony Gordon this transfer window. Other significant midfield sales this summer include Elliot Anderson to Nottingham Forest for £116m and Mateus Fernandes to Tottenham for £85m.

Guimaraes' age, approaching 29, is likely to influence Arsenal's valuation. The potential acquisition of a new central midfielder would likely lead to the sale of an existing player, with Christian Norgaard being a possibility. This move could also impact Martin Zubimendi's starting role under Mikel Arteta.