Arsenal Accelerate Bruno Guimaraes Chase as Verbal Offer Rejected

Arsenal are turning up the heat in their pursuit of Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, with sporting director Andrea Berta now free to ramp up negotiations after Brazil’s early World Cup exit. Preliminary discussions have already taken place, and the Gunners recently tested the waters with a verbal offer. That initial bid was knocked back by Newcastle, but sources indicate a deal could still be struck if the Brazilian international pushes for a move away from St James’ Park. Meanwhile, Arsenal are also keeping tabs on a potential replacement for Ben White. Should the England international depart this summer, the club has drawn up a shortlist of up to 11 candidates — including former Manchester United right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The DR Congo international impressed at the World Cup and could be on the move after West Ham’s relegation to the Championship. Centre-backs Raul Asencio of Real Madrid and Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa are also being monitored, though neither is a specialist full-back. In South America, Arsenal are preparing an official bid for Boca Juniors midfielder Tomas Aranda. The 19-year-old, who already has a senior Argentina cap, has made 21 appearances for Boca since his debut earlier this year. Reports suggest Arsenal are ready to offer more than his €17 million release clause to get the deal over the line, with Parma also keen. On the outgoing front, Arsenal have no intention of selling Piero Hincapie. The Ecuador international, who endured a difficult World Cup, has been linked with Real Madrid, but the Gunners are standing firm after making his loan from Bayer Leverkusen permanent for €52 million last summer.