Arsenal technical director Edu has suffered a setback in his attempts to sign Athletico Paranaense midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, according to reports in the Brazilian media.

The Gunners were hoping to secure the 22-year-old for around £26m but his current club want to keep at least 20% of his ownership rights.

Athletico Paranaense are said to be willing to sell 80% of Guimaraes for around €25m (£21m) but due to Premier League’s ban on third-party ownership, this is not something Arsenal could agree to.

Instead, it appears the London club would have to trigger the Brazilian’s €40m (£34m) release clause if they want 100% of the player’s ownership rights.

It is not unusual in South America for clubs to share ownership with agents, but it does make negotiations for signing players a lot more complicated. Whether Edu will be able to overcome this major obstacle and secure an agreement for Guimaraes, we shall have to wait and see.