Arsenal handed Bruno Guimarães boost as Newcastle target Lucas Bergvall

Arsenal may have received an encouraging development in their pursuit of Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimarães after the Magpies stepped up their interest in Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall.

According to The Athletic, Newcastle have submitted an offer worth around £46 million for the Sweden international, although Tottenham rejected the proposal. Despite the initial setback, the report adds that Spurs could be prepared to negotiate if an improved bid is submitted.

The move has fuelled speculation that Newcastle are preparing for a possible midfield reshuffle amid continued interest in Guimarães from the Premier League champions.

After missing out on Switzerland international Johan Manzambi, who opted to join Aston Villa, Newcastle have shifted their attention to Bergvall as Eddie Howe looks to reinforce his midfield.

The 20-year-old has reportedly informed Tottenham that he wants to seek a new challenge after struggling for regular football under Roberto De Zerbi. Despite being highly rated, Bergvall found opportunities limited last season and is now believed to be open to leaving north London.

Tottenham are understood to value the midfielder highly, but their significant investment in the position has increased competition for places, potentially making a transfer possible if the right offer arrives.

Newcastle's interest in Bergvall has inevitably sparked fresh speculation over the future of Guimarães.

Arsenal have admired the Brazilian for some time, and reports have previously suggested the Gunners held initial discussions with his representatives to assess the possibility of a summer move.

The midfielder has also been linked with a desire to take on a new challenge, although Newcastle have consistently maintained that they do not want to sell one of their most influential players.

Even if Bergvall were to arrive at St James' Park, it would not necessarily guarantee Guimarães' departure. Newcastle could simply be adding depth to their midfield rather than preparing for an exit. However, securing another high-quality central midfielder would strengthen their position should Arsenal return with a formal approach later in the window.

For now, Newcastle's stance remains unchanged, with widespread reports suggesting any club hoping to sign Guimarães would need to offer around £100 million before serious negotiations could begin.

Newcastle are expected to decide whether to return with an improved offer for Bergvall, while Arsenal continue monitoring Guimarães' situation. Any movement involving the Brazilian is likely to depend on Newcastle's transfer business over the coming weeks, although the club's public position remains that their captain is not actively for sale.

Would Lucas Bergvall be a suitable successor to Bruno Guimarães at Newcastle, or should the Magpies do everything possible to keep their captain?