Arsenal star's four-word reply over Guimaraes says it all with transfer imminent

As such, all that awaits Guimaraes being a new Arsenal player is his £75million switch being made official. The 28-year-old has been superb for the Magpies over the last few years and often turns on the style against Mikel Arteta's side which certainly explains why there is so much excitement over his arrival in the dressing room.

Calafiori has optimised that with his telling response to being asked about Guimaraes after Arsenal's pre-season friendly defeat to Real Betis. With a wry smile on his face after facing a Guimaraes question, he turned to the press officer and said: "Is it official yet?"

Upon learning it his move had not been announced, Calafiori had nothing further to say but while not giving away much, it is clear that the Arsenal players are looking forward to playing alongside Guimaraes.

FOLLOW OUR ARSENAL FB PAGE! Latest Gunners news, analysis and much more via our dedicated Facebook page

“I cannot talk about any news," he told Premier Sports. "You guys are sometimes faster than me, I've been involved in the match so I don’t know what’s happening!”

Upon being told that he would be a good addition, still grinning, Arteta replied: “I cannot talk about any player that is not an Arsenal player."

Arsenal are now expected to fully focus on an ambitious deal for Real Madrid Vinicius Jr. However, their chances of signing him taking a hit after Jose Mourinho's side offered him a new contract more in line with his demands.

A final decision still needs to be made on his future but it looks more likely he stays in the Spanish capital and signs an extension over completing what would almost certainly be a triple-figure move to the Gunners.

There is still some hope for Arsenal, however, with the playing squad of the belief that Vinicius will join having been convinced of a move to Emirates Stadium after speaking with Arteta.

A defender signing is also under consideration at Arsenal following the injury suffered by William Saliba at the World Cup which is expected to rule him out for a few months.

Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa is at the top of their shortlist with a second bid reportedly being prepared after an opening offer, that fell way below his valuation, was turned down.

All the best news, features, updates and analysis from Tom Canton and more straight to your Inbox!

Yours in just two simple steps.