Arsenal are aiming to reach an agreement with Newcastle United for midfielder Bruno Guimaraes by the end of this week, according to reports. The Brazil international has already agreed personal terms with the Gunners and informed Newcastle of his desire to join Mikel Arteta's side this summer.
Newcastle frustrated by lack of direct negotiations
Newcastle have grown frustrated with Arsenal's approach, as the club has not engaged in direct club-to-club talks. Arsenal's opening bid of £55 million, communicated through intermediaries, was rejected last month. A subsequent £70m proposal was also turned down by the Magpies.
Progress reported on £75m+ deal
According to talkSPORT, Arsenal have made progress with Newcastle over a deal worth in excess of £75m. The report adds that Arsenal have made the signing of Guimaraes a priority and want an agreement in place before the end of July. However, Chronicle Live reports that no direct negotiations have taken place, and Newcastle's hierarchy are 'growing tired' of suggestions that an improved offer has been submitted.
Guimaraes set for pre-season return
Guimaraes is due to report for pre-season training with Newcastle on Friday ahead of their training camp in La Manga next week. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, speaking after a 1-1 draw with Gateshead, offered no guarantees over Guimaraes' future. 'We've had some really good conversations, before the World Cup, during the World Cup and after the World Cup,' Howe said. 'What we speak about obviously has to remain private but just a great player, a great person. I don't know what's going to happen with Bruno's future. That's for other people to speculate about, but also conversations that I'm not part of. We don't want to lose our best players, that's an obvious statement to make. So, losing those big two is painful for us, and difficult.'
