Arsenal to begin talks to sign Brazilian midfielder

Arsenal are reportedly prepared to hold talks with Athletico Paranaense regarding the possible signing of midfielder Bruno Guimaraes this month.

Paranaense's president Mario Celso Petraglia recently confirmed that the Gunners are exploring a summer deal for the 22-year-old but it appears that the north London side would prefer to sign him by the end of this month.

According to Goal.com, the Gunners face direct competition from Benfica for the player's services but they are hopeful of winning the race with the influence of Gunners sporting director Edu.

Edu has good connections with the domestic Brazilian sides after working closely with the national team and it is claimed that the Gunners are looking to sign the midfielder for an initial fee of around £17m.

Arsenal recently went unbeaten for the fourth-straight game in all competitions but their league form has been average with back-to-back draws against Crystal Palace and Sheffield United.

The Gunners have an away league game at Chelsea on Tuesday night.