Arsenal transfer target ‘aiming higher than Bruno Guimaraes’ as Newcastle move ruled out

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Arsenal target Lucas Paqueta has reportedly ruled out a move to Newcastle with the Lyon midfielder believed to be setting his sights higher than the Magpies. The Brazil international has a very close relationship with Toon star Bruno Guimaraes but he will not seek to follow in his footsteps instead deciding to stay in Ligue 1 until a more successful club comes along. 

Paqueta has become a target for both Arsenal and Newcastle on the back of two impressive seasons in the South of France. He has found the net 20 times for Lyon and contributed a further 13 assists in 77 appearances. 

Neither club have made a more solid approach for the 24-year-old after the Ligue 1 side placed a £58million valuation on his services. This is since believed to have been reduced to £40m after the creator put in a transfer request. However, he could now be set to hold back on this demand as he said to be hopeful of a bigger move in the future. 

French outlet But Football have reported that the player is aware of Newcastle’s interest but would prefer to make a move to a different club rather than follow in the footsteps of former team mate and close friend Bruno Guimaraes who has become a fans favourite at St James’ Park. 

Paqueta encouraged excitement in the north-east earlier in the summer when he was spotted on the banks of the Tyne alongside the Newcastle No 39. However, his trip appears to be no more than a social call to catch up with one of his best friends. 

His lack of interest in a move to the north-east could leave Mikel Arteta with a clear run at trying to secure his signature. The Gunners’ boss is known to be keen on bringing in more new faces to the Emirates after a busy transfer window that has seen the club sign five players. 

Speaking earlier this month the Spaniard spoke of his plans to continue to act this summer.

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“We are really active, as you can see with incomings and outgoings,” Arteta said.“Everything is still open, it’s a long window, a lot has happened, it’s incredible how much business the clubs have done across the Premier League and it shows how competitive it is, and this season is not going to stop that.

“Players are going to have the need to leave, some others to move and everything is open still.”

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