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Arsenal midfielder Jorginho is set to leave the club as a free agent at the end of the season, bringing an end to his 18-month stay in north London.
The 33-year-old Italian international joined Arsenal from Chelsea in January 2023 for a fee of £12 million and has since made 78 appearances across all competitions. While not always a regular starter, Jorginho has been regarded as a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s dressing room, offering leadership and experience.
However, with his contract expiring this summer and talks over a renewal stalling, Jorginho has reportedly decided to move on. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, discussions between the player and Arsenal over a possible extension have collapsed, and “it will be over between Arsenal and Jorginho in the summer.”
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Jorginho’s agent, Joao Santos, had previously confirmed that talks with multiple clubs — including Arsenal, as well as teams in Italy, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil — were scheduled to begin in mid-April. Despite Arsenal’s hopes of convincing the midfielder to stay for another year, no agreement was reached.
Jorginho (Image credit: Getty Images)Earlier this year, Jorginho was the subject of a late approach from Brazilian side Flamengo during the January transfer window. Although he was reportedly open to an early departure, Arsenal rejected the offer, with Arteta keen to keep him for the remainder of the campaign.
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The Euro 2020 winner has made only nine Premier League starts this season and was recently pictured in Rio de Janeiro, further fuelling speculation about a return to Brazil — the country of his birth.
Flamengo have made Jorginho their top target to replace outgoing Chilean midfielder Erick Pulgar and are prepared to offer a three-year contract. It is understood that Jorginho has already spoken directly with Flamengo head coach and former Chelsea defender Felipe Luís.
Palmeiras have also shown interest in the veteran playmaker but currently trail Flamengo in the race for his signature.
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