Arsenal are not prepared to pay £100m for Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

The Brazilian international has a release clause which means clubs can sign him for that amount if the bid is made in June but, speaking to CaughtOffside.com, Jacobs claims the Gunners won’t be tempted into making an offer:

“Arsenal appreciate Guimaraes, but have no intention to trigger his clause meaning they would only enter the race if the price drops.”

Jacobs also claims that Newcastle may consider selling the midfielder for around £80m so a move to the Emirates cannot be completely ruled out. However, it is clear that Mikel Arteta’s side won’t be favourites for his signature.

A Premier League rival could pay the buyout fee

Manchester City are believed to be the most active in their pursuit of Guimaraes, with Jacobs reporting that the reigning Premier League champions and Arsenal are the two clubs that have contacted the player’s entourage.

If the Cityzens do decide to pay the £100m required for the 26-year-old next month, the Gunners are not expected to match the bid.

Arsenal have a longstanding interest in Guimaraes

Mikel Arteta’s side were first linked with the midfielder when he was still playing for Athletico Paranaense in Brazil. Sporting director Edu identified him as a target before the beginning of the 2020 January transfer window.

However, Guimaraes ultimately ended up moving to Lyon instead before securing his switch to St James’ Park just a couple of years later.

Based on the latest information, it appears the likelihood of Guimaraes ever playing for the London club has diminished considerably. They may well end up moving on to other targets with the likes of Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz and Benfica’s Joao Neves all reportedly being looked at as potential options.