Arsenal told Bruno Guimaraes transfer could push Martin Zubimendi down pecking order

Arsenal have been warned they do not need to spend beyond their valuation to sign Bruno Guimaraes, despite the Newcastle United midfielder emerging as one of their leading transfer targets.

The Premier League champions are in advanced discussions over a deal for the Brazil international after seeing an opening bid rejected by Newcastle earlier this week. While Mikel Arteta remains keen to strengthen his midfield before the transfer window closes, former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor believes Arsenal are already well equipped to defend their title.

Guimaraes has become a priority target following Christian Norgaard's imminent departure to Everton, with the experienced midfielder granted permission to complete a medical after the clubs agreed a deal worth around £7 million.

Arsenal have already enjoyed another active summer in the transfer market.

Piero Hincapie's loan move from Bayer Leverkusen has been converted into a permanent transfer, Christos Tzolis has arrived from Club Brugge to replace Leandro Trossard, while goalkeeper Illan Meslier has joined from Leeds United.

Guimaraes would become the club's fourth signing of the window and provide further quality in central midfield, although Newcastle remain reluctant to sanction the sale of one of their key players.

Speaking on talkSPORT Breakfast, Agbonlahor praised Guimaraes but suggested Arsenal should not pay a premium fee for the Brazilian.

"They don't need a busy window," he said.

"They've just won the Premier League and they're going to strengthen.

"They've lost Trossard, they've brought in Tzolis, who's a very good winger.

"If they bring in Bruno Guimaraes, I think that's enough to go again and win the Premier League anyway, even without him.

"He's a fantastic player, but I don't think he should be the same fee as Sandro Tonali because of the age difference.

"So I think £75million or £80million is about right."

Newcastle secured a £100million fee when they sold Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur earlier this summer, although Agbonlahor believes Guimaraes' age reduces his resale value.

Agbonlahor also suggested Guimaraes' arrival would have consequences for Arsenal's existing midfield options.

Martin Zubimendi completed a move from Real Sociedad last summer and enjoyed an impressive debut campaign, making 57 appearances in all competitions while contributing six goals and three assists.

However, Agbonlahor believes increased competition could see the Spain international's role diminish.

"They've sold Norgaard to Everton, so you're looking at that midfield and saying it's a bit light now," he added.

"I think he's a fantastic player.

"We were just talking off air that probably says Zubimendi, maybe you're a squad player next season."

Arsenal are also expected to begin the campaign without Declan Rice, who continues his recovery after suffering a neural issue affecting his hamstring and back during England's World Cup campaign. The midfielder has yet to return for pre-season after being granted an extended break.

Key points

Negotiations between Arsenal and Newcastle are expected to continue after the Magpies rejected the Gunners' opening offer.

Whether Arsenal return with an improved bid could depend on Newcastle's valuation, with Arteta still eager to reinforce his midfield before the transfer deadline despite confidence in the club's existing options.