Arsenal have submitted a £70 million bid for Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, significantly raising their pursuit after the club earlier rejected an opening offer of £55 million.
Newcastle are ready to turn down the improved proposal and maintain they have no intention of selling their captain, who started all five of Brazil's World Cup matches before their exit to Norway and has yet to return for pre-season. The Magpies, having already parted with Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali in deals worth up to £100 million this summer, have signalled they would demand a £100 million fee if Guimaraes formally requests a transfer.
Arsenal, who view the 28-year-old as a partner for Declan Rice, are also monitoring Julian Alvarez, Bradley Barcola, Ezri Konsa and Jacobo Ramon as they reshape their squad.