Arsenal are being linked with Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, but there are complications to overcome in order for such a deal to be completed this summer.

It is true that the Gunners are looking for a new central midfield option for next season and Guimaraes is one of the names they have listed as an option.

Yet at this stage it is too early to know whether they can pull off such a high profile swoop, as three other major aspects need to be figured out before even considering the effect of his release clause.

One factor is Arsenal have already made inroads over signing another midfielder, Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.

The second important factor is that Manchester City also hold serious interest in signing Guimaraes. The third factor is that Newcastle still believe they can hold onto him for one more season.

Pep Guardiola is understood to be an admirer of the Newcastle star and would be keen to have him on board as the side is elevated for next season.

City have complications of their own to figure out as they want to offload Kalvin Phillips, while Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne could leave. It is felt Bernardo is far more likely to exit than De Bruyne, yet talks will be needed to address all situations.

On top of that, City also have Lucas Paqueta lined up as a top target for the summer window.

A tug-of-war between Arsenal and City could yet open up to clinch the signature of Guimaraes, who would face a huge decision over which way to turn.

He has spoken fondly of Newcastle and his intentions to stay but with a £100million release clause and no European football on the table for next season, his head could be turned.

Newcastle do not want to lose Guimaraes and feel his loyalty is genuine, and that he may yet be with them for the start of 2024/25. But they are going to face a fight to make that happen.

City and Arsenal have further opportunity to take hold of the Premier League next season, with Liverpool in transition post-Jurgen Klopp and with typical rivals Manchester United and Chelsea way off the pace.

Tottenham and Aston Villa are sides in development but neither would be expected to challenge for the title next term.

Sources say Arsenal have made early explorations around the availability of Guimaraes and the terms that would be needed to sign him, but they are also making similar calls and setting up meetings around other players too.