Arsenal are planning to offer €25m for Bruno Guimaraes before Thursday, meeting Athletico Paranaense’s asking price, according to a report.

CURITIBA, BRAZIL - SEPTEMBER 11: Bruno Guimarães of Athletico PR controls the ball during the match Athletico PR v Internacional as part of Copa do Brasil Final, at Arena da Baixada Stadium on September 11, 2019, in Curitiba, Brazil. (Photo by Lucas Uebel/Getty Images)
CURITIBA, BRAZIL – SEPTEMBER 11: Bruno Guimarães of Athletico PR controls the ball during the match Athletico PR v Internacional as part of Copa do Brasil Final, at Arena da Baixada Stadium on September 11, 2019, in Curitiba, Brazil. (Photo by Lucas Uebel/Getty Images)

Speaking on Portuguese outlet Canal 11, Bruno Andrade claimed Arsenal are planning to formalise their interest in Bruno Guimaraes in the coming days. They’ll reportedly place a €25m bid between today and Thursday, meeting Athletico Paranaense’s asking price.

Andrade also reports that a work permit shouldn’t be a problem for Guimaraes. The value of the transfer would be sufficient to get the permit through.

This report comes days after Athletico-PR’s club president confirmed Arsenal’s interest in the player. However, he suggested the Gunners were holding off for a summer move. Whether that’s changed or not, I suppose we’ll find out by Friday.

Guimaraes has a release clause of €40m, but it seems Athletico-PR would accept €25m anyway. Globo Esporte also recently reported on Arsenal’s interest.

The 22-year-old has a contract with Athletico until 2023. He plays in midfield, and he’s a very strong passer from a defensive midfield role.

In the last two years, Guimaraes won four trophies with Athletico-PR and made the Brazilian Serie A Team of the Year in 2019.