Transfer Centre

Chelsea 'accept Arsenal bid for Jorginho'

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 31 January 2023

Chelsea reportedly accept a bid from Arsenal for Jorginho, the midfielder now expected to sign for the Gunners before Tuesday's deadline.

Arsenal have reportedly made the breakthrough in discussions with Chelsea for midfielder Jorginho.

Throughout the January transfer window, it has been known that Mikel Arteta has been eager to sign a fresh face for central midfield, particularly more recently given the injury issues concerning Mohamed Elneny.

Arsenal had wanted to sign Moises Caicedo from Brighton & Hove Albion, only for the Seagulls to retain a stance that the Ecuador international is not for sale.

However, on Monday evening, reports emerged that the Gunners had made a shock bid for Jorginho, who has represented their London rivals Chelsea since 2018.

The 31-year-old is due to be out of contract in the summer and there has been little talk of a renewal with the Blues looking to make widespread changes to their senior ranks.

Jorginho scores from the spot for Chelsea on October 11, 2022 © Reuters

While personal terms were said to not be an issue, it was widely claimed that the two clubs had yet to agree on a fee, with Chelsea allegedly wanting to recoup in excess of £15m.

Nevertheless, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, a compromise has been reached with Chelsea accepting a £12m offer.

Romano adds that Jorginho is now expected to pen a contract at the Emirates Stadium until 2024, with the option of a 12-month extension.

Providing that the Italy international passes a medical later on Tuesday, the transfer is expected to be confirmed before the 11pm deadline.

Chelsea had been looking to boost their position with FFP ahead of potentially signing Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez for a fee in the region of £105m.

If Jorginho leaves Stamford Bridge, it will also likely mean that Conor Gallagher, a target for a number of Premier League clubs, will remain with Graham Potter's squad.