According to a joint report by Arsenal correspondent Alex Howell from BBC Sport and Newcastle correspondent Ciaran Kelly, Arsenal are in formal talks with Newcastle United over the transfer of captain Guimaraes.

Previously, discussions between the two sides regarding the Brazilian midfielder were mainly conducted through intermediaries, but now the two clubs have entered a direct communication phase. Guimaraes, 28, hopes to join last season's Premier League champions Arsenal, and parties involved in the negotiations believe the transfer is gradually moving closer to a resolution.

Earlier reports indicated that Arsenal had made a £70 million offer through intermediaries last month, but it was unsuccessful. Newcastle later confirmed that they had rejected an offer from Arsenal. Although neither side has disclosed the specific amount, Arsenal is expected to submit a higher bid.

Guimaraes had previously returned to Newcastle as planned and traveled to La Manga, Spain, for the team's pre-season training camp. He had a period of leave after the World Cup.

The Brazilian midfielder has been a key target in Arsenal's summer strengthening plans. The Gunners hope to continue to improve their squad after winning the Premier League title, and head coach Mikel Arteta has also previously stated that the team is "very positive" and "ambitious" about future plans.

Arteta said: "We need to increase competition within the squad, and we also need to make sure we find what the team is currently missing."

Guimaraes contributed 9 goals and 8 assists for Newcastle in all competitions last season, making him an important core of the team. However, Newcastle only finished 12th in the Premier League last season, which has made the player's future a focus of external attention.

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