Arsenal will likely focus on strengthening the midfield for next season, and AS claims they could make two signings during the upcoming transfer window.
Thomas Partey and Jorginho are expected to leave when their contracts expire on June 30.
The club is already in advanced talks with the representatives of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, whose contract includes a release clause worth £51 million.
The Gunners have yet to negotiate with Sociedad for a reduced price, but they are confident that the Spaniard will move to the Emirates Stadium this summer.
Incoming sporting director Andrea Berta also has his sights set on landing Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes, having failed to sign him in the past.
Berta was keen on recruiting Guimaraes for Atletico Madrid. Between his debut at Audax and his breakthrough with Lyon, he tried to sign him on three occasions.
Atletico were not persuaded to recruit him, but the Italian seems determined to bring the Brazil international to the Gunners as one of his first signings this summer.
Guimaraes is reportedly very happy at the Magpies, but he has a gentleman’s agreement to leave for £51m if they don’t qualify for next season’s Champions League.
Guimaraes would be a statement signing for Arsenal
The Gunners have been long-term admirers of Zubimendi. They tried to sign him in the past, but the Spaniard turned them down to stay with his boyhood club.
However, he appears prepared for a new challenge this summer. It looks likely that the Gunners will finally get the opportunity to bring him to the Premier League.
The club have more ambitious plans with a possible move for Guimaraes, who has established himself as one of the best central midfielders in the English top-flight.
The Brazilian has won an average of 6.8 duels per league game, alongside 4.9 recoveries and two tackles. He has also completed 58 percent of his dribbles, creating 11 big chances.
The 27-year-old has made 11 goal contributions this term, with nine in the league. He would be a statement signing for the Gunners, but a deal won’t be straightforward.
Fifth place in the league could be enough to secure Champions League football. The Magpies are only behind Manchester City on goal difference at the moment.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Fotmob.com.
This article was written by .
