Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has said he cannot guarantee Bruno Guimaraes will remain at the club amid reported Arsenal interest, although he stressed that Newcastle want to keep their captain. Arsenal are reportedly preparing a £70m offer for the Brazil midfielder, whose possible departure would be another significant loss after a series of key exits.

Howe said he has held positive private talks with Guimaraes and expects him to return to training before Newcastle’s pre-season camp in Spain. The club’s midfield has already been weakened by Sandro Tonali’s move to Tottenham for up to £100m, while Newcastle are rebuilding with younger continental signings including 18-year-old Ajax midfielder Sean Steur, who impressed in a 1-1 pre-season draw with Gateshead.