Arsenal have entered direct talks with Newcastle United over signing club captain Bruno Guimaraes, marking a step up from earlier discussions conducted through intermediaries. The 28-year-old Brazilian midfielder is understood to want the move to the Premier League champions, and while a deal is not yet agreed, those involved feel negotiations are heading towards a resolution.

Arsenal previously made an approach worth around £70m through intermediaries, which BBC Sport reported would need to be increased, and a Newcastle source has said an offer has since been rejected, with the exact figure undisclosed by either club. Arsenal are expected to return with an improved bid. Guimaraes has joined Newcastle's pre-season training camp in Spain as planned, and manager Mikel Arteta, without confirming the target directly, said Arsenal were "very active" and "very ambitious" in strengthening the squad after last season's title win. Guimaraes scored nine goals and provided eight assists across all competitions last season as Newcastle finished 12th.