Arsenal are showing an interest in Athletico Paranaense midfielder Bruno Guimaraes for a summer move, according to the Brazilian club’s president.

Mario Celso Petraglia, club president of Athletico Paranaense, named Arsenal among two clubs after Bruno Guimaraes, whilst ruling out a third. First, he admitted Benfica made a formal offer for the player in the last couple of days.

“Yesterday came the official offer from Benfica to sign Bruno Guimarães,” Petraglia told O Jogo (via Sport Witness). “Let’s study Benfica’s offer. On Monday we will meet the club board to assess this situation.”

As for Arsenal, Petraglia suggests a deal is more likely in the summer in that case.

“Arsenal are interested, but will only make an offer towards the end of the season.”

Finally, he ruled out Atletico Madrid, who “already informed that they are not interested”.

Benfica reportedly offered €20m, but it’s unlikely Athletico Paranaense will accept. The player has a release clause of €40m, so the club are in a strong position until they get an offer closer to that figure.

Globo Esporte reported on Arsenal’s interest recently as well. In addition to Atletico Madrid and Benfica, they named Chelsea and Flamengo in the race. However, Guimaraes’ priority to play in Europe makes the Flamengo deal unlikely.

Guimaraes 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. Recent Brazil u23 call-ups have him on the right path for a work permit too.