Newcastle United are scouting midfield reinforcements as uncertainty grows around captain Bruno Guimaraes, with Arsenal emerging as the leading suitor for the Brazilian star.

Guimaraes reportedly informed club officials this week that he wishes to leave St James' Park. Arsenal have made their interest known to both the club and the player and are expected to submit a formal bid — though the price tag is set to be significant.

Magpies maintain their stance — for now

Newcastle have insisted Guimaraes is not for sale. The club made similar declarations about Alexander Isak last summer, yet the striker eventually forced through a transfer to Liverpool. Whether history repeats itself remains to be seen.

The departure of Sandro Tonali to Spurs earlier this summer complicates matters further. Allowing both midfielders to leave in the same transfer window would represent a significant blow to the squad's spine.

Two names on the shortlist

Despite their public stance, Newcastle appear to be planning for every eventuality. According to The Athletic, the club have monitored Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara over an extended period, and Auxerre's Kevin Danois is also on their radar. Both players are 22 years old.

The club's recruitment team has drawn up a broader list of targets in the event that key personnel depart, with The Athletic reporting that Newcastle intend to replace any player who leaves this window.

New faces already arriving

Newcastle's summer activity extends beyond the Guimaraes situation. The arrival of Sean Steur from Ajax is set to be confirmed within days, and a move for Johan Manzambi — who has caught the eye at the World Cup — is anticipated once Switzerland conclude their tournament campaign.

The club have already added 20-year-olds Bazoumana Toure and Ewen Jaouen this summer, signalling a clear intent to build a younger squad. Anthony Gordon has also departed, completing a high-profile switch to Barcelona, while former captain Kieran Trippier has joined Wolves.

With so much movement at St James' Park, Newcastle's starting XI on the opening day of next season could look markedly different from the side that ended last campaign.