BBC: Arsenal close to landing their top transfer target

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BBC: Arsenal close to landing their top transfer target

Originally posted on Just Arsenal | Last updated Jul 30, 2026 12:23 PM ET

Arsenal’s pursuit of Bruno Guimarães appears to have taken another major step forward, with BBC Sport reporting there is now a growing expectation that the Newcastle United captain will join the Premier League champions this summer.

Senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel reports that the Brazil international has made it clear he wants to move to the Emirates, while Arsenal are becoming increasingly confident they can complete a deal for the 28-year-old.

Arsenal preparing improved offer

Guimarães has been on Arsenal’s radar throughout the summer, but the Gunners will need to improve on the £70 million bid they submitted earlier this month if they are to secure his signature.

According to the BBC, no new proposal has yet been submitted, and Newcastle continue to insist that formal club-to-club talks over the midfielder’s move to North London have not yet taken place.

Despite that, Arsenal remain hopeful of reaching an agreement in the coming days, with the total package potentially rising to £80 million once add-ons are included.

The midfielder is also due to return to Newcastle training in the coming days as speculation over his future continues.

Howe departure not linked

One of the biggest talking points surrounding the transfer has been Eddie Howe’s decision to leave Newcastle on Thursday.

However, the report states there is no connection between Howe’s departure and the growing belief that Guimarães is edging closer to Arsenal.

The Magpies are already facing significant change after the departures of Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon this summer, while Matthias Jaissle is expected to replace Howe as head coach.

While there is still work to do before any transfer is completed, this is arguably the strongest indication yet from a tier-one source that Arsenal are closing in on one of Mikel Arteta’s priority midfield targets.

Would Bruno Guimarães complete Arsenal’s midfield, Gooners, or would you still like to see another addition before the transfer window closes? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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This article first appeared on Just Arsenal and was syndicated with permission.

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