Arsenal are preparing a £70m bid for Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes.
The Brazil international is a leading target for the Gunners, and the midfielder is keen on joining the Premier League champions.
Newcastle understand the 28-year-old’s preference for a move to Arsenal this summer.
Negotiations are ongoing and have gathered pace recently. Personal terms are not expected to be a stumbling block, though it is unclear whether a £70m offer will satisfy Newcastle’s valuation.
Sources close to Newcastle say they do not plan to sell Guimaraes this summer and that Arsenal have not made a direct approach.
Arsenal intend to add top-level talent as they build on last season’s title win.
They were interested in signing Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa but would not exceed an £80m valuation; Chelsea ultimately secured the player for £117m. Arsenal had the chance to match that fee but declined.
Similarly, Arsenal have set a firm maximum price for Guimaraes and will not overpay despite their strong interest.
In defence, Ezri Konsa of Aston Villa is Arsenal’s top target, and they have inquired about his availability. Como’s Jacobo Ramon is also on their shortlist, though contract clauses are thought to complicate any deal.
After missing out on Rogers, Arsenal remain in the market for attacking options. Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez is their ideal signing, but his current preference for Barcelona and a potential fee higher than the British record £125m set by Alexander Isak’s move from Newcastle to Liverpool present clear obstacles.
Arsenal have also explored a move for Paris St-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.