Arsenal are reportedly set to rebuff any advances from rival clubs for midfielder Jorginho.
The Italian international faces an uphill battle to nail down a starting spot this season given the arrival of fellow central midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.
However, Merino faces a handful of weeks on the sideline after he sustained a small fracture in his shoulder as a result of a training ground collision with defender Gabriel.
With Declan Rice’s suspension and Thomas Partey having a patchy record with injuries, Jorginho could prove to be a valuable squad member.
That’s reportedly the thinking of Gunners boss Mikel Arteta, as talkSPORT claim Arsenal will turn down offers for Jorginho.
Arsenal are set to turn down all offers from rival clubs for star midfielder Jorginho
The Italian international faces an increased competition for a spot in Arsenal’s midfield
The 32-year-old has quickly established himself as a valuable member of Arsenal’s squad
TalkSPORT reported Turkish giants Galatasaray were one club who had taken a keen liking to Jorginho, having tried and failed in moves for Casemiro and Scott McTominay in recent months.
However, given the Turkish window remains open until September 13, Arsenal may be facing somewhat of a nervous wait until it slams shut.
Jorginho moved to the Emirates Stadium from Chelsea on January deadline day in 2023 for just £9.5million.
Although he suffered a slow start at Arsenal, the 32-year-old has since grown into a vital member of Arteta’s squad.
His leadership has also proven to be a valuable asset and even wore the captain’s armband on six occasions across all competitions in the 2023-24 season.
Jorginho was rewarded for his strong form last term with a contract extension in May this year that keeps him at Arsenal until at least the end of this season, although there is an option to extend his stay for another year.
Since his transfer to Arsenal, Jorginho has made 52 appearances in all competitions, scoring one goal and providing three assists.
Arteta will also be leaning on the 32-year-old’s title expertise once more as Arsenal look to finally go one better and snap Manchester City’s dominant reign atop the Premier League.
Jorginho signed a contract extension in May, with his deal set to expire in June 2025
He is yet to appear for Arsenal this season but stands a good chance of playing against Spurs
Arsenal have finished second for two consecutive seasons, falling short last term by an agonising two points.
The Gunners have started brightly this season with two wins from three games, including a gritty 2-0 victory over Aston Villa.
Jorginho is yet to make an appearance this season for Arsenal but with Rice suspended for Sunday’s derby clash against Tottenham, he stands a strong chance of earning his first minutes.
