Arsenal are preparing to shift their focus to Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott should their pursuit of Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes prove unsuccessful, according to reports. The Gunners are poised to submit a third bid for Guimaraes, reportedly worth £70 million, but sources at Newcastle have indicated the offer will be rejected.
Arsenal have already had two unofficial bids for Guimaraes turned down, valued at £55 million and £65 million respectively. Despite reaching a full agreement on personal terms with the Brazilian, Newcastle are proving firm in their valuation of their captain. Graeme Bailey, an insider with knowledge of the situation at Newcastle, stated the upcoming bid is “not welcome, not wanted and will not be accepted.”
Should Arsenal’s third attempt to sign Guimaraes fail, the club has reportedly already decided to pursue Scott as an alternative. Arsenal previously made an enquiry about Scott earlier in the transfer window, but it was rejected by Bournemouth. However, Scott has recently declined to sign a new contract with the Cherries, a deal that would have included a release clause, leaving his future uncertain.
Bournemouth are currently maintaining a firm stance against selling Scott this summer, despite his reluctance to extend his current contract which expires in two years. This position hasn’t deterred other suitors, with Chelsea having a £64 million bid for Scott rejected. Arsenal are now prepared to enter the fray, contingent on Newcastle’s refusal to part with Guimaraes.
Guimaraes has been a key figure for Newcastle since joining in January 2022, establishing himself as a dynamic presence in midfield and captaining the side. Scott, meanwhile, has emerged as a promising talent at Bournemouth, showcasing his versatility and passing range. A move for Scott would represent a shift in Arsenal’s midfield targets, but provide a long-term solution in the centre of the park.
