Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes has his heart set on a move to Arsenal, but it may not be as straightforward as some fans might hope.
The Magpies are still licking their wounds following a disappointing season, which saw them fail to qualify for Europe. This has contributed to a hand being forced, resulting in the sales of Anthony Gordon to Barcelona and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham.
Newcastle could eventually earn £100 million from the sale of the Italy international, but a similar fee would be needed to secure the signing of Guimaraes. Arsenal are keen to sign the midfielder, amid concerns about Declan Rice's fitness and availability for the new season.
Football legend Alan Shearer believes Guimaraes will stay at Newcastle, citing the player's understanding of the area and the football club. Shearer also thinks it would be a bad look for Newcastle to sell Guimaraes, given his talent and the fact that he has been great for the club.
The Magpies are demanding £90 million for Guimaraes, who currently has two years left on his contract. Arsenal have indicated they are prepared to go £70 million for the player they have coveted since his breakthrough with Athletico Paranaense.
The Gunners came close to signing Guimaraes when he left Lyon for the Premier League, but were beaten to his services by Newcastle. Guimaraes has made no secret of his desire to join Arsenal and play for Mikel Arteta, but it remains to be seen if Newcastle will be willing to sell.
Arsenal's interest in Guimaraes has sparked concerns that they may be willing to pay a high price for the player. However, it is also possible that Guimaraes's agent is trying to negotiate a new deal with Newcastle, rather than actively seeking a transfer.
The situation is complex, and it will be interesting to see how it plays out in the coming weeks and months. One thing is certain, however: Guimaraes is a highly talented player, and his signature would be a major coup for any club.
