Arsenal could act quickly in order to bolster Mikel Arteta’s squad with another midfielder this summer on a free transfer, potentially replacing Jorginho just months after he left Chelsea for their London rivals. The Italian made the short journey to the Emirates in January to provide experience and guile as the Gunners looked to hold off Manchester City in the title race, proving his worth with an influential role during the 2-0 win away to Newcastle on Sunday.
The 31-year-old only penned an 18-month contract upon his arrival at Arsenal, with the option of a further year, as all parties were well aware that it would be a short-term partnership. Shortly after joining up with his new team-mates, rumours had already begun over a potential exit as journalist Graeme Bailey detailed how Jorginho could swiftly return to his homeland.
Speaking on the Talking Transfers podcast, Bailey said: “He’s an upgrade. Bringing him in now, one player doesn’t make a team, but this one player could have such an impact on this Arsenal team. He has experience, he’s impressive. I’m not surprised that Arteta is delighted with this. This could be the signing that wins them the title.
“I don’t think it has affected their long-term transfer ambitions. I’ve been told by someone and they said that they wouldn’t be surprised if Jorginho lifts the title and then still moves back to Italy in the summer.”
Arsenal may be prepared to part ways with Jorginho if there is a ready-made replacement, which could be found in the form of Borussia Dortmund midfielder Mahmoud Dahoud. The German’s contract expires at the end of the season as he is set to depart the Bundesliga, with a host of teams including the Gunners reportedly vying for his signature.
Fabrizio Romano has claimed that the 27-year-old will make a decision on his future soon, as Premier League teams have already approached him over a free transfer for next season while he also has interest from Serie A. He has endured a difficult final year in Germany but his qualities are well-known to English sides and a move to these shores is claimed to be his preference.
Liverpool previously attempted to bring him to Anfield before Dahoud decided to join Dortmund, while Sky Germany in March reported that Arsenal had registered their interest in signing the playmaker – as they are able to speak with the player directly regarding a pre-contractual agreement.
He is closer to Jorginho than Thomas Partey in terms of profile, while the playmaker would help provide Arteta with a low-cost addition.
He could be a budget option as Arsenal look to further bolster their midfield options with big-money moves for the likes of Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo as they compete with Manchester City at the top of the table.
