Bruno Guimaraes has ‘taken a slight lead’ as Arsenal’s number one midfield target

Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes has emerged as a priority target for Arsenal this summer. 

Football London reports that the Brazilian midfielder has ‘taken a slight lead’ amongst Arsenal’s midfield targets, with the Gunners preparing to launch a raid on Newcastle.

Mikel Arteta’s side fell short in the Premier League title race again, finishing as runners-up behind Manchester City for a second consecutive season.

Unlike their shocking capitulation in the 2022/23 run-in, Arsenal came tantalisingly close to dethroning the champions this season, finishing just two points behind City.

Losing out on the title on the final day would undoubtedly be a hard pill to swallow for Arteta and co, but the Gunners have already begun planning for another title challenge next term.

Arsenal are expected to recruit fresh faces across every department, and a midfielder is firmly at the top of their wishlist.

Their ambitious plan to conquer the Premier League next season has seen them set their sights on Newcastle’s Guimaraes, who could leave St. James’ Park this summer.

The Brazil international reportedly has a £100 million release clause in his contract, and Arsenal are amongst a number of clubs looking to snap him up.

Manchester City, Manchester United, and Paris Saint-Germain have also been credited with plotting a move for the 26-year-old, although he could remain in the Premier League with PSG dropping out of the race.

Arsenal and other potential suitors have been warned that Guimaraes’ release clause must be triggered before the end of June or he would remain at Newcastle for at least another season.

Guimaraes has been a transformative signing for the Magpies since joining from Olympique Lyon in January 2022.

He has been a key figure in Eddie Howe’s squad, making 50 appearances across all competitions this season, chipping in with seven goals and ten assists.

Arsenal are eager to add quality to their ranks this summer, and signing Guimaraes would be a clear statement of intent ahead of another potential title challenge next term.