Arsenal 'intensify' Bruno Guimaraes pursuit amid 'release clause' claim

Newcastle United are determined to avoid a repeat of last summer's Alexander Isak saga but could be dragged into it by Bruno Guimaraes, sources have told Football Insider.

The 28-year-old remains a crucial part of Eddie Howe's plans, and the Magpies are reluctant to see him leave, but growing interest from elite clubs could force their hand.

Arsenal are the most advanced club in their interest, having seen an initial enquiry rebuffed by the Magpies, but they are not believed to have been deterred.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Newcastle are now in a "difficult situation" as they struggle to cling on to their best players.

Guimaraes could become the third major departure for Newcastle this summer, after Anthony Gordon joined Barcelona and Tottenham reached an agreement for Sandro Tonali.

Arsenal are not the only club in the running, with Man United and Liverpool also linked, and Newcastle are now fearful they may be unable to block their advances.

Could Newcastle be forced to sell Bruno Guimaraes?

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown warned Football Insider that Arsenal have been encouraged in their pursuit of Guimaraes after contact with the player's representatives.

Sources say the Gunners' initial offer was worth around £55million, and was never likely to be accepted, but may have sewn seeds of dicontent.

Newcastle are unlikely to budge on their stance that he is not the sale, but after the Isak saga last summer, it has become clear that they may be forced into a decision.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "It's turned into a bit of a saga, which obviously Newcastle were keen to avoid this summer after all that happened with Alexander Isak.

"It's a difficult situation for Newcastle because they don't want to lose Bruno Guimaraes. He is the heartbeat of the team.

"Having lost Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali, to lose three players like that in the same transfer window would take a lot to recover from.

"Arsenal had that enquiry quickly dismissed for Bruno, obviously Newcastle were never going to sell him for £55million or whatever fee was discussed there.

"I don't think Arsenal's interest will go away. It will intensify. Obviously there's been disputes over whether he's a release clause or not in his deal at St James's Park right now as well.

"But as I said, to lose three players of the quality of Gordon, Tonali and possibly Bruno would be huge loss for the club and big voids to fill."

Will Arsenal return with a new bid for Guimaraes?

Arsenal's decision to formalise their interest in Guimaraes has led to increased speculation, as despite the offer being swiftly rejected, their intent has been made clear.

Following their Premier League title success, and having reached the Champions League final, Mikel Arteta is keen to build on his squad with bi-name targets.

However, former Tottenham scout Bryan King told Football Insider that Arsenal's opening offer was "an insult", and they will likely be forced to pay at least £80million for his services.

This comes after Newcastle agreed a fee of £100million for Tonali to join Tottenham, setting a clear precedent for what it will take to land their best players.

There have, though, been conflicting reports of a release clause in Guimaraes' contract, which could further complicate the situation.