Arsenal accelerate Bruno Guimaraes talks after Brazil exit

Arsenal are expected to accelerate talks over a move for Bruno Guimaraes following Brazil’s elimination from the World Cup.

FootballPlace understands that early discussions have already taken place, with a verbal offer worth around £45 million rejected. Newcastle United continue to insist their captain is not for sale, but there is a belief that their position could be tested if Guimaraes opens the door to leaving St James’ Park.

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is now set to step up the club’s transfer work, with a fee in the region of £65 million potentially required to make serious progress.

Brazil’s World Cup exit has removed one potential obstacle to negotiations.

Several players on Arsenal’s transfer shortlist have been focused on the tournament in North America, allowing transfer discussions to remain in the background. Guimaraes is now available to consider his future after Brazil were eliminated by Norway.

The 28-year-old registered four assists at the World Cup, including the decisive pass for Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli against Japan in the last 32. His tournament ended on a disappointing note when he missed a penalty against Norway.

Newcastle’s failure to qualify for the Champions League could now become an important factor. Guimaraes remains a central figure at the club, but Arsenal can offer both Champions League football and the opportunity to compete for major trophies.

Newcastle have maintained a firm position that Guimaraes is not for sale.

However, FootballPlace understands the situation could change if the midfielder indicates he wants to leave and Arsenal raise their offer towards £65 million.

That would represent a major investment, but Guimaraes would add proven Premier League quality to a squad preparing to defend the title. His ability to control games, progress possession and create chances would give Arsenal another elite midfield option.

Much will depend on the player’s position. Newcastle remain under no obligation to sell, and Arsenal would need a clear indication that a deal is possible before committing to a significantly improved offer.

Arsenal’s transfer activity is expected to become a greater priority following a busy period of internal restructuring.

The club have made significant changes across their medical, fitness and rehabilitation departments, while Pascal de Maesschalck has been appointed as the new Academy Director.

With that work progressing and several World Cup campaigns now ending, Berta can focus more heavily on Arsenal’s summer recruitment.

Arsenal must now decide whether to turn their early discussions into a formal offer closer to Newcastle’s expected valuation.

Guimaraes’ position will be crucial. If the Brazilian signals that he is open to joining Arsenal, Berta could have the encouragement needed to accelerate negotiations for one of the club’s leading midfield targets.

Could Bruno Guimaraes be the signing that strengthens Arsenal’s Premier League title defence?