Arsenal are preparing to submit a new offer to sign Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, according to reports. The Premier League club had an initial £55m bid, communicated through intermediaries, rejected by Newcastle last month.
Arsenal's improved bid and Newcastle's stance
Arsenal indicated they would return with an improved offer, and a £65m bid could be enough to 'tip the balance', according to Chronicle Live. Sources at the club have indicated that an official offer will be submitted before the end of the summer transfer window. Arsenal are also 'encouraged' that an agreement can be reached.
Newcastle are keen to keep their captain at St James' Park, but Guimaraes has concerns over the club's direction after they failed to qualify for Europe and decided to sell Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon this summer.
Guimaraes' importance and recent form
Guimaraes has been a key part of Eddie Howe's side since his £40m move from Lyon four years ago. Speaking earlier this week, his former teammate Emil Krafth told the BBC: 'He's the most important player in the team. He manages the game so well, both physically and technically. I hope they can keep him. There's a lot of rumours surrounding him, which is not surprising because he's had a good World Cup and a great season.'
Guimaraes has impressed for Brazil at the World Cup this summer with four assists in four games for Carlo Ancelotti's side. The 28-year-old is set to keep his place in midfield for Brazil's last-16 tie against Norway on Sunday.
