Eddie Howe has admitted his uncertainty over the future of Bruno Guimaraes at Newcastle United this summer.
talkSPORT understands the Brazilian has agreed personal terms with Arsenal ahead of a potential move.
Arsenal are also set to face no competition from rival clubs for the 28-year-old, who has two years left on his contract at St. James’ Park.
Guimaraes is keen to move to the Premier League champions, who are on course to make a bid north of £70million for his signature.
An exit would come as a significant blow to Newcastle ahead of the new season.
Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali have already left for Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur respectively.
Howe has addressed the speculation over his club captain, with he and fans being left in the dark about whether he stays or goes.
“I’ve spoken to Bruno before, during and after the World Cup,” he said via Keith Downie after a 1-1 pre-season friendly draw with Gateshead.
“We have had some really good conversations. He’s just a fantastic person.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen with his future, that’s for other people to speculate about. There’s conversations I’m not part of.”
Howe added: “I don’t think it’s fair to compare (to Alexander Isak last summer). You’ve got to look at it in its own right.
“He’s captain of our club and been an unbelievable player, through the whole time we have worked together.
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“I speak on behalf of everyone at the club, we absolutely love him and of course everyone would love him to stay.
“He’s due back on the 31st (July), and there’s nothing to say he won’t be back.”
Newcastle reinforcements
Although Guimaraes could follow Gordon and Tonali out of the exit door, Newcastle have been busy with their recruitment.
Ewen Jaouen was their first arrival in an £18m move from Reims, and then Bazoumana Toure joined from TSG Hoffenheim for £43m.
Newcastle have also brought in Sean Steur from Ajax in a deal worth around £23m.
Their latest signing was announced on Friday, with Aladji Bamba making the move from AS Monaco for £34m.
