Arsenal technical director Edu Gaspar is set to hold talks with Bruno Guimaraes’ agent as the Gunners step up their pursuit of the Athletico Paranaense star.
According to GloboEsporte, Arsenal have emerged as one of the potential destinations for Bruno Guimaraes. The Athletico Paranaense midfielder has attracted the interest of a host of clubs across Europe following his excellent performances in the Brazilian Serie A.
Arsenal seem to have stepped up their pursuit of Guimaraes, with their sporting director, Edu Gaspar, expected to hold talks with the player’s representatives within the coming days. However, the Gunners could face competition from SL Benfica, who are reportedly willing to offer €22 million, though Athletico PR president Mario Celso Petraglia is looking for a fee in the range of €25-€30 million.
While Benfica could always improve their bid, Arsenal do have an advantage in the pursuit of Guimaraes, thanks to the prospect of playing in the Premier League. Not to mention, the Portuguese giants have recently spent a considerable amount of money to rope in Borussia Dortmund star Julian Weigl earlier this January.
As far as Arsenal are concerned, the potential acquisition of Guimaraes could make sense for a number of reasons. New signing Dani Ceballos, who arrived in the summer, in a season-long loan deal from Real Madrid, has struggled despite a promising start to the campaign.
Injuries have played a role in stifling his progress in north London. But, it is fair to point out that the Spaniard is yet to make a single appearance since returning to full fitness earlier this month. And given the performances of Granit Xhaka and Lucas Torreira in recent months, it’s unlikely that Ceballos will be able to make himself a first-team regular under Mikel Arteta.
Guimaraes, in that regard, should be an ideal replacement for the Real Madrid star, especially with the midfielder set to return to Santiago Bernabeu at the end of the season. The Brazilian has made quite an impact at Athletico PR ever since his breakout in the 2018 season.
Guimaraes’ technical qualities could improve Arsenal’s build-up from the back. But more importantly, the 22-year-old can provide the additional defensive cover for the backline and be considered as an ideal long-term replacement for Xhaka, who has already been linked with a move to Hertha Berlin.
However, it remains to be seen whether or not Arsenal will be able to afford Guimaraes in this January transfer window.
