Arsenal pursue Bruno Guimaraes as World Cup stars face delayed return

Arsenal are actively pursuing a transfer for Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes this summer while preparing for the delayed return of several key players following their World Cup campaigns.

Gunners sporting director Andrea Berta has been patiently scouring the market to secure top targets ahead of the new season.

The Italian executive is reportedly making progress on personal terms with both Guimaraes and highly-rated prospect Morgan Rogers.

Speculation surrounding the Brazilian international has intensified after his father, Dick Guimaraes, posted a telling message on social media following a recent tournament exit.

World Cup heartache and transfer speculation

The Newcastle talisman recently missed a decisive spot-kick for his country during a shock round-of-16 defeat against a Norway side captained by Martin Odegaard.

Reports suggest the 26-year-old has already informed his current employers of his desire to secure a move to north London during this transfer window.

Mikel Arteta will be hoping to finalise these high-quality additions before his squad faces Manchester City in the Community Shield on August 16.

Delayed returns for international stars

The reigning Premier League champions are also managing the fitness schedules of eight squad members who reached the latter stages of the World Cup.

David Raya, Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi, William Saliba, Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke and Declan Rice are all officially entitled to a minimum 21-day summer break.

This mandated rest period means the returning internationals are expected to miss upcoming pre-season friendlies against Girona and Real Betis.

Club medical staff anticipate the absent contingent will finally rejoin the main group ahead of an Emirates Cup clash with Borussia Dortmund on August 9.

However, players managing pre-existing fitness issues, including key trio Rice, Saka and Saliba, may face further delays before returning to full training.