Arsenal step up transfer plans as Guimaraes pursuit continues and Vinicius speculation grows
By Joel Masibo, August 4, 2026Arsenal’s summer recruitment drive remains one of the biggest talking points of the transfer window, with the Premier League champions actively pursuing reinforcements despite already strengthening their squad ahead of the new campaign.
The Gunners have seen an opening offer for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes turned down, but negotiations between the two clubs are still ongoing as Mikel Arteta looks to further strengthen his midfield. At the same time, Arsenal continue to be linked with Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior, whose contract situation in Spain is attracting widespread attention.
Norgaard close to Everton move
Christian Norgaard appears to be nearing the end of his Arsenal spell after being granted permission to complete a medical examination with Everton.
The Danish midfielder did not travel with Arsenal’s squad to Dublin as discussions over his move to Goodison Park progress.
Meanwhile, Brazilian internationals Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli have rejoined the squad following their extended World Cup breaks, while players involved with England, Spain, Norway and France remain on additional leave.
Begovic convinced Guimaraes will join Arsenal
Former Premier League goalkeeper Asmir Begovic believes Bruno Guimaraes’ future ultimately lies at the Emirates Stadium.
Speaking on Sky Sports News, Begovic said:
“I can only see this ending one way – and that’s with Bruno Guimaraes in Arsenal colours. It’s inevitable.
“Bruno wants to challenge himself. He wants to play at the highest level, he wants to play in the Champions League, so I think when the Premier League champions come calling [there is only going to be one outcome] and one option here.
“I think Bruno Guimareas would be that kind of statement signing [for Arsenal] in the heart of that midfield to continue to push that team to higher levels.
“Arsenal’s ambitions are not just Premier League – the ambition will be Champions League and winning multiple trophies and to go from there.
“In order to that, you need the possible squad and I think Bruno coming in to the heart of that midfield there will add a different layer to that.”
Guimaraes remains with Newcastle
Despite Arsenal’s interest, Guimaraes has joined Newcastle’s pre-season training camp in Spain and even shared images of himself with the squad on social media.
The Brazilian midfielder travelled to La Manga shortly after Arsenal’s first bid was rejected. While Newcastle remain determined to keep their captain, discussions between the clubs have continued.
Earlier reports suggested the midfielder had informed Newcastle he would welcome a move to the reigning Premier League champions if the two clubs can reach an agreement.
Wilshere backs Arsenal’s transfer strategy
Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere believes Guimaraes would significantly strengthen Arteta’s side while also praising the club’s pursuit of Vinicius Junior.
Discussing Guimaraes, Wilshere said:
“The one thing I don’t see changing is Declan Rice.
“Whenever the team played well last year, he was a big part of that. he needs a rest now, he’s had a lot going on in the summer s as well, of course.
“But to add quality, Bruno is a player I really enjoy watching. With Mikel’s coaching and the way he’ll shape his play, plus the quality he already has, it will be a top signing for them if they get it done.”
On Vinicius Junior, he added:
“It would definitely be a statement from Mikel [Arteta] and the club that they won the league last year and they’re not resting on that.
“They’re ready to go again and want to improve, not just on the pitch but also on the commercial side as well with a player like that.”
Wilshere also encouraged youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly to remain at Arsenal and continue competing for a regular place.
Reflecting on the academy graduate’s progress, he said:
“Last year was interesting to watch for Myles because he probably never experienced that.
“All the way through the academy, him and Ethan [Nwaneri] were always the best players in their age group.
“The academy did a good job of giving him the right challenge at the right time, then he faced a bit of adversity, but I was really happy for Myles and the way he handled it.
“The one thing I love about him is his character and personality. He’s never let that leave him… when I saw him on the bench and he’d still cheer every moment. He’s a character that wants love and he gives a lot of love as well.
“He found his way at the end of the season in the Champions League final where, in my opinion, in his best position.
“I’d like to see him stay and fight for it because I believe he’s good enough for that team.”
Arsenal remain disciplined in negotiations
While Arsenal continue exploring several major deals, Laurens believes the club will not abandon its valuation principles.
“We’ve seen with Arsenal so far this summer that they won’t overpay.
“They won’t pay over the odds, over what they believe is the right value for the player – whether that’s Bruno Guimaraes, or Morgan Rogers, Yan Diomande, or anybody else.”
That approach was reflected in Newcastle’s rejection of Arsenal’s first proposal for Guimaraes, with the Magpies standing firm over their valuation of the Brazil international.
Arteta promises more business
Arteta has already welcomed Christos Tzolis and Illan Meslier this summer, but the Arsenal manager insists further additions remain a priority.
Following Arsenal’s impressive pre-season victory over Girona, the Spaniard said:
“Well, we are really active, trying to improve and evolve the team. That’s clear.
“We expect to have movements in the next few weeks, obviously, because we want to get better like anybody else. And you can just see the transfer market and our opponents.
“What we are doing, we won’t sit still, and we are very ambitious in what we want to do.”
His comments underline Arsenal’s determination to continue strengthening their squad as they prepare to defend the Premier League title while also mounting another serious challenge for Champions League glory.