Arsenal have made initial contact with Lyon over the potential signing of Bruno Guimarães, according to reports this week.

22nd July 2021 - Stadium Yokohama, Yokohama, Japan, Tokyo - 2020 Olympic Games, Brazil versus Germany Bruno Guimaraes of Brazil. Lucas Figueiredo / CBF
22nd July 2021 – Stadium Yokohama, Yokohama, Japan, Tokyo – 2020 Olympic Games, Brazil versus Germany Bruno Guimaraes of Brazil. Lucas Figueiredo / CBF

Goal Brazil initially broke the news that Arsenal are monitoring Bruno Guimarães, and that they’ve already made some enquiries with Lyon. They’re now evaluating the possibility of making an official bid for the player, with Lyon wanting €35m.

Arsenal tried to sign Bruno back in January 2020, but he already had an agreement with Lyon at that point and stuck to his word. He’s been an impressive performer since then, but Lyon are in financial difficulties and may have to accept a sale.

Sport Witness confirm that Arsenal’s interest in Bruno is real, though they don’t guarantee the Gunners will meet Lyon’s demands.

Brazilian outlet Lance also confirm Goal’s information, adding that Bruno’s initial response to the interest was that he’s focusing on his participation in the Olympic Games for now, and he’ll resolve his future afterwards.

Bruno would be an excellent replacement for the possibly-departing Granit Xhaka this summer. Xhaka’s move to Roma seems to have stalled and the player has returned to Arsenal amid reports the club will give him a new deal. Bruno is only 23, compared to Xhaka who will be 29 in September, but he has European top-five league experience, he’s played in the Champions League, and he’s made his international debut.

The midfielder is an excellent progressive passer and ball carrier, who presses and tackles well and is very involved in Lyon’s attacking build-up. If he’s a serious option, particularly for under £30m, he’s one Arsenal should pursue.