Arsenal are reportedly monitoring several midfield options as Mikel Arteta seeks to strengthen his squad ahead of the upcoming season. Bruno Guimaraes of Newcastle United has emerged as a target, though the player himself is seemingly open to signing a new contract with the Magpies, according to The i Paper. Newcastle have firmly stated Guimaraes is not for sale, having already rejected one approach from the Gunners, and are actively working to secure him to fresh terms.
Despite Arsenal’s interest, Guimaraes, who will turn 29 in November, appears receptive to remaining at St. James’ Park, although his representatives are exploring potential opportunities. The Brazilian international currently has two years remaining on his existing deal, and reports suggest he is not actively pushing for a transfer. His Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently sits between €63.1M and €77.1M.
Arteta is also reportedly keen on bringing Barcelona’s Dani Olmo to the Emirates Stadium, as reported by Fichajes. The Spain international has been a consistent performer for Barca since joining from RB Leipzig, but the club may be willing to consider a sale for a fee of at least €60 million. Arsenal are currently considered frontrunners for Olmo’s signature, with Arteta’s influence playing a significant role in attracting the player. Chelsea are also monitoring the situation.
Further complicating Arsenal’s midfield plans, Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United was reportedly offered to the club last week. However, a deal appears unlikely due to the player’s high wage demands – reportedly £250,000 per week – and the substantial agent fee involved. Additionally, Arsenal-linked Julián Álvarez has reiterated his desire to join Barcelona, despite recent attempts from Atletico Madrid to retain his services. The Moroccan international Ayyoub Bouaddi, currently at Lille, has also attracted interest from Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and Manchester United, with Lille seeking a fee between €80-100 million for the player, potentially including a one-year loan back to the club. Finally, academy prospect Mishel Nduka is expected to depart the club this summer, with several Premier League clubs showing interest.
These potential moves signal Arsenal’s intent to bolster their midfield options, providing Arteta with greater depth and competition ahead of a challenging season. Securing a player of Guimaraes or Olmo’s calibre would undoubtedly strengthen Arsenal’s chances of competing at the highest level.
