Arsenal have agreed personal terms with Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes on a five-year contract, while the Gunners have also confirmed a new signing
As the World Cup continues to command the football spotlight, preparations are underway at Arsenal to ensure they’re prepared for their title defence with a superstar midfield signing in their sights.
The sole senior outfield recruit to the squad thus far is Ecuador star Piero Hincapie, who has sealed a £34.5million switch from Bayer Leverkusen after a loan spell. With the initial batch of players scheduled to return for pre-season training imminently, business is expected to accelerate as focus shifts towards reinforcing the squad.
Multiple incomings and outgoings are expected throughout the coming weeks as sporting director Andrea Berta aims to maximise a reported £250m transfer kitty. Here, the Daily Star Sport looks at all the latest news from the Emirates Stadium.
Guimaraes agreement
Arsenal have reportedly struck terms with Bruno Guimaraes, as the Brazilian pursues an exit from Newcastle. Following his nation’s last-16 elimination to Norway at the World Cup, the 28-year-old is now concentrated on securing a transfer to north London. The Gunners are poised to submit a bid of approximately £60million.
Newcastle have maintained that Guimaraes is not for sale, though the Magpies have adopted a similar position on other players before ultimately sanctioning departures. Sandro Tonali has already departed the north-east for Tottenham this summer in a £100m deal.
While an agreement between the clubs may require considerable time to negotiate, Guimaraes has reportedly already accepted a five-year contract with the Gunners, according to French publication L’Equipe.
Signing completed
Arsenal have finalised the acquisition of goalkeeper Illan Meslier, 26, following his departure from Leeds United. Meslier spent seven years in Yorkshire, featuring in 215 matches, including 70 clean sheets. He recently became available on a free transfer after his contract expired.
Meslier said: “I’m extremely happy. It’s a great day for me because I have just joined the champions. For me, Arsenal is the biggest club in England.
“I’m very happy and very proud to join Arsenal. I cannot wait to show the love that I’ve got for this badge. I cannot wait to win trophies with this team, because this is a club that needs to lift trophies again and again.”