Arsenal told to prioritise World Cup sensation over Bruno Guimaraes transfer

Arsenal should make signing a new left winger a priority this summer over a move for Bruno Guimaraes.

That’s according to Darren Bent, who named his dream target for the Premier League champions ahead of their title defence.

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talkSPORT understands that Arsenal are keen on pursuing a deal for Newcastle captain Guimaraes.

The midfielder is pushing for a move to the Gunners, with sporting director Andrea Berta keen to sign him.

Arsenal are yet to approach Newcastle regarding a transfer, but have spoken to the player’s representatives.

It would be a major coup for Mikel Arteta and his reigning champions, with Guimaraes eyed as one of the league’s best midfield talents.

However, Bent believes they should focus elsewhere when it comes to strengthening the team.

“Does Bruno walk straight into Arsenal’s team?” Andy Goldstein asked the former Premier League striker on Breakfast.

“Because if he doesn’t, you’re effectively telling him he’s going to be a squad player. I, for the life of me, can’t see him agreeing to that.”

“If he wants to play in the Champions League and have the chance to win trophies, then he’s going to have to.”

Bent added: “He doesn’t walk into any top side now and start straight away… Manchester United, he actually would. But Arsenal? No.

“Arsenal just won the Premier League… that’s not the priority for me, left wing is the one that I’d go for first. If there’s a little bit of extra change, then you start strengthening other areas.”

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“I’d like to start at left wing, because that’s the area I think we need to improve the most,” he reiterated.

Goldstein then asked who he would want at left wing, with Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard potentially leaving this summer.

“Barcola, PSG (Paris Saint-Germain),” he swiftly said. “Bradley Barcola, incredible.”

Bradley at his best

It’s been a memorable few weeks for Barcola at both international and club level.

The 23-year-old won a second consecutive Champions League title with PSG, as well as a third Ligue 1 honour.

Didier Deschamps handed him a call-up to the France squad for the World Cup, and he made an immediate impact on his tournament debut.

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Barcola was brought off the bench with ten minutes remaining in their 3-1 win over Senegal, scoring their second of the match.

He then played the majority of their weather-affected 3-0 victory against Iraq earlier in the week.