Arsenal prepared to step up pursuit of Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes this week | OneFootball

Arsenal are set to step up their pursuit of Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes this week, according to talkSPORT.

The Gunners are ready to test the Tyneside club’s resolve with an improved formal offer exceeding £70 million.

Mikel Arteta has long admired the 28-year-old Brazilian international, identifying him as the ideal partner to anchor Arsenal’s midfield alongside Declan Rice.

Arsenal executives are keen to accelerate direct talks with Newcastle to secure a marquee midfield signing.

Newcastle are eager to keep Guimaraes, particularly after the departures of Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon, but hw indicated a desire to take on a new challenge.

Broad terms on a potential contract have already been outlined between Arsenal and the player’s representatives.

Earlier informal inquiries in the region of £60 million were swiftly rejected by Newcastle, who insist on a higher valuation to sanction a move – although their preference remains to keep the midfielder.

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe recently admitted that he values Guimaraes immensely, but decisions regarding his long-term future involve factors beyond his immediate control.

The Magpies have already begun contingency planning in midfield. They recently finalised the signing of Aladji Bamba from Monaco and have enquired about Botafogo midfielder Danilo.

With Guimaraes currently on extended post-World Cup leave before his scheduled return on July 31, direct negotiations between the two clubs are expected to reach a crucial phase in the coming days.