Athletico Paranaense club president Mario Celso Petraglia has confirmed Arsenal’s interest in Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimaraes.
In an interview with Portuguese outlet O Jogo, Petraglia revealed that Benfica have made an official offer to sign the player, while Arsenal are also keen to sign the 22-year-old.
However, he continues by telling O Jogo that the Gunners are refusing to make an offer this month as they prefer the option of signing the player in the summer.
Arsenal are interested, but will only make one offer at the end of the season.
Read Arsenal Verdict
If Benfica are unable to complete a deal to sign Guimaraes, he could be a really exciting addition to the Arsenal squad for next season.
Bleacher Report describe Guimaraes as “strong, tall and two-footed” and a player “can tackle but also find the right pass to split a team”, qualities that could make him a great addition to the Premier League.
Their report also adds that Chelsea have been long-term admirers of Guimaraes too, so it could go down as a very popular signing in North London if they are to get one over their rivals at Stamford Bridge.
Some pundits and journalists have been quick to point out that Arsenal have struggled in midfield this season, with The Telegraph calling it their ‘biggest problem’.
If they do sign Guimaraes, Arsenal could address this midifeld ‘problem’ and hopefully, he’ll be able to play a part in helping Arsenal make a push for a Champions League place.
