Arsenal are stepping up their summer transfer plans after finally securing their first senior deal of the window.
The Gunners are looking to go one step further this season when it comes to their Premier League title ambitions, narrowly missing out to Manchester City last time around.
That will take further investment into Mikel Arteta and his squad, with plenty of potential transfers on the cards.
One that has already been completed is Riccardo Calafiori’s move to Arsenal, with the Italian defender offering a fresh skillset on the left-hand side.
Beyond the 22-year-old’s arrival, there is also a plan to bolster the midfield ranks, which has seen plenty of links.
One of those has been Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes, who has since made his feelings over a move crystal clear.
Bruno Guimaraes Newcastle statement
Arsenal have been linked with a move for Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes this summer, with reports of a release clause in his contract.
However, in a statement on social media, the Brazilian star appears to have made his feelings over leaving the Magpies clear.
After captaining the side in pre-season, he said: “I’m very happy to be starting another season with this club that has done so much for me since my first day here.
“I’m glad to be back and more prepared than ever to have a brilliant season and to help Newcastle reach the highest possible position!
“Another dream has come true! Being the captain of this team is everything I’ve always dreamed of but never imagined!
“We’re in this together, and I’m sure I’ll be more dedicated than ever to this badge.”
It’s the type of talk that suggests he isn’t open to a move, with full focus on helping Newcastle return to European competition.
That is a huge boost to the Magpies, given his importance to the team.
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola was full of praise for the midfielder back in March as he said in a press conference: “He is an exceptional holding midfielder.
“He is aggressive, with the ball or without the ball.
“At set pieces, he’s aggressive and is a real, complete holding midfielder since being at Lyon and now at a club who want to grow up and up.
“I’m sure he’s part of the project for the next years. Definitely.”
READ MORE: Every player linked to and from Arsenal in the summer 2024 transfer window
Bruno Guimaraes transfer alternatives
With a move for Guimaraes seemingly unlikely, Arsenal are looking elsewhere to bolster their midfield ranks.
Mikel Merino looks set to join Arsenal as their next signing from Real Sociedad, adding plenty of control in the middle.
If they wish to look at a more box-to-box option to compete with Merino and Declan Rice, similar to the mould of Guimaraes, then perhaps Chelsea star Conor Gallagher would fit best.
The England international is free to leave Stamford Bridge this summer with just one year remaining on his contract.
Gallagher would represent an impressive squad option, capable of seeing out games with his energy and aggressiveness.
While it remains unlikely as a move, it may add even more bite to the midfield.
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