Arsenal dealt Bruno Guimaraes blow over 'transfer clause demand'

Arsenal have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of talented Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, according to reports.

The Gunners are among a number of clubs who have been linked with a move for the 22-year-old, who currently plays for Athletico Paranaense, with Benfica and Lyon also understood to be interested.

Arsenal sporting director Edu reportedly met with Guimaraes' representatives in London last week with the view of pursuing a move for the player.

However, Goal in Brazil claims that the demands of Paranaense are currently proving to be a significant obstacle to any potential deal for the midfielder.

According the publication, the Brazilian club want to keep 20 percent of Guimaraes' ownership rights due to his vast potential and are demanding around £21million (€25m) for the remaining 80 percent.

Although multiple-party ownership is permitted in Brazil - with rights usually shared among clubs, agents and family - such arrangements are not allowed in English football.

Therefore, Arsenal would be required to buy the 22-year-old's full rights if they want him to complete the switch to the Emirates Stadium.

And it is claimed that Paranaense would only agree to such a deal if interested clubs pay his £34m (€40m) release clause.

However, Sportwitness suggests that the Gunners could get around the issue by inserting a sell-on clause.

While the Brazilian outfit are expecting Guimaraes to attract even more interest from European clubs in the coming days, it is believed that Benfica are still the only club to have submitted an official bid.

It has been claimed that the Portugeuse giants are also looking to purchase 100 percent of his rights and have had a bid of £17m (€20m) plus add-ons rejected.

Guimaraes is captain of Brazil’s 2020 Olympics team, who are currently participating in a qualification tournament in Colombia for this summer’s competition.