Prominent Arsenal midfielder to leave club this summer for Club World Cup contenders

Jorginho has agreed to join Flamengo on a free transfer this summer, bringing an end to his 18-month stay at Arsenal.

The 33-year-old midfielder will sign a three-year contract with the Brazilian giants once his deal with the Gunners expires in June.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news on Monday, stating that a full agreement has been reached for Jorginho to move during FIFA’s pre-Club World Cup transfer window.

The Italy international will become a Flamengo player until 2028, taking on a new challenge after a decade in European football.

Flamengo have reportedly granted Jorginho a few days off to complete his wedding and honeymoon plans before pre-season begins.

While Arsenal and Flamengo are yet to issue official confirmation, the deal is considered done and only pending final formalities.

Jorginho joined Arsenal from Chelsea in January 2023 in a £12 million move and has gone on to make 78 appearances for the club.

Initially signed as midfield cover, he has often filled in for the injured Thomas Partey and rotated with Declan Rice in the heart of midfield.

Despite some early doubts over his signing, the Italian’s influence in maintaining control and rhythm in games was valued by Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal handed him a one-year extension last summer, keeping him at the club until the end of the current campaign.

However, with a longer-term deal not forthcoming and Flamengo offering a stable project, Jorginho has opted to return to South America.

He is currently sidelined after suffering a punctured lung in Arsenal’s win over Brentford in March but is expected to be fit before the season concludes.

Jorginho’s departure will leave Arsenal with a gap in midfield depth, particularly given Partey’s fitness issues.

Reports in Spain suggest Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi is being targeted as a replacement ahead of the summer window.

Jorginho will bring leadership and composure to a Flamengo side that is gearing up for a Club World Cup campaign and domestic title ambitions.

Having already won the Champions League, Europa League, and European Championship, the Brazilian club view Jorginho’s experience as a major asset.

The post Prominent Arsenal midfielder to leave club this summer for Club World Cup contenders first appeared on ArsenalNews.co.uk.