Arsenal Prepare €25m For Bruno, Boateng Not Available

Arsenal are ready to meet Athletico Paranaense’s asking price for Bruno Guimaraes which is €25m.

Portuguese news outlet, Canal 11 claim the Gunners are due to submit their offer within this week.

The report also claims that obtaining a work permit won’t be a problem for the midfielder. The transfer sum would cover the cost of acquiring one. However, other news sources also stated that Athletico had agreed terms with Benfica to send Guimaraes their way.

The 22-year-old reportedly has a release clause worth €40m but Athletico are ready to accept €25m for an immediate sale. Arsenal were originally planning to sign the player next summer but given the rising interest in him, they are ready to wrap up business now.

Guimaraes’ contract is also set to run till June 2023 which means, rival outfits can get him for a higher fee later on. That would be counterproductive for Arsenal since they desperately need more cover in midfield. Lucas Torreira has proven to be an outstanding defensive stop centrally but there is no one to replace him at the Emirates.

The Gunners really felt his absence when Torreira was subbed off in the 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace last week. Matteo Guendouzi is a more offensive minded player and still lacks the experience to start under Mikel Arteta.

In other news, Bayern have also halted Jerome Boateng’s potential exit this January. That means Arsenal won’t have a chance to add him to the defensive ranks.