Some transfer targets are obvious.
However, others appear completely out of nowhere.
Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal falls somewhere in the middle.
Because the admiration has always been there.
Arsenal make shocking approach for Newcastle United star deemed ‘untouchable’
According to CaughtOffside, Arsenal have held talks regarding a possible move for Newcastle United’s star midfielder, Bruno Guimaraes.
The Brazilian has been admired for several years, by Mikel Arteta.
However, now the interest appears to be growing once again.
Arteta is understood to be keen, and it is not difficult to understand why.
Guimaraes has established himself as one of the Premier League’s best midfielders.
All of it makes him an ideal fit for Arsenal’s system.
Initial discussions have taken place as Arsenal explore the possibility of bringing the midfielder to north London this summer.
The challenge, however, is obvious.
Newcastle do not want to sell.
The midfielder remains one of the most important players at St James’ Park, and replacing him would be extremely difficult.
Arteta wants greater control in midfield.
And another player capable of influencing the biggest matches.
Guimaraes offers all three.
The Brazilian has become the heartbeat of Newcastle’s midfield since arriving from Lyon.
His performances have consistently attracted interest from Europe’s biggest clubs.
Manchester City have previously monitored him.
Paris Saint-Germain have shown interest.
And Arsenal have remained admirers for some time.
The midfielder has also continued to impress on the international stage.
His performances for Brazil during the recent World Cup have further strengthened his reputation as one of the world’s leading midfielders.
That naturally increases competition.
And it increases the price.
Newcastle hold a strong position, as Guimaraes remains under contract.
And previous reports suggested any move would require a fee close to £100 million.
For Newcastle United, losing their captain and midfield leader would be a major blow.
Especially with the club continuing to compete at the highest level.
Supporters regard him as untouchable.
Eddie Howe feels similarly.
But modern football changes quickly.
And Arsenal clearly believe an opportunity may exist.
A move to north London would also offer Guimarães the chance to compete regularly in the Champions League.
That remains one of Arsenal’s biggest selling points.
The project under Arteta continues to grow.
The squad continues to improve.
And elite players are beginning to view the club differently.
For now, talks remain at an early stage.
No agreement has been reached.
No bid has been submitted.
But Arsenal are exploring the possibility.
And one of the Premier League’s best midfielders has once again found himself at the centre of a major transfer story.
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