The Gunners will likely focus on strengthening the midfield for next season, and AS claim that 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 are already in advanced talks with the representatives of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who has a release clause worth £51 million in his contract.
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.
Alongside Zubimendi, incoming sporting director Andrea Berta has his sights on landing Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes, having failed to sign him in the past.
Berta was keen on recruiting Guimaraes for Atletico Madrid. He tried to pursue his signature on three occasions between his debut at Audax and his breakthrough with Lyon.
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 them for £51m, suppose 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 a stunning 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 campaign, 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 presently only goal difference behind Manchester City for the spot.
Arsenal will hope the Magpies will miss out on the competition. Otherwise, the Tyneside outfit could demand a significant nine-figure sum to part ways with Guimaraes.
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