Arsenal
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Arsenal are gearing up for a significant squad reshuffle this summer, with major reinforcements expected in both attack and midfield. The Gunners, whose title challenge was hampered by injuries, are set to be active in the transfer market as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his squad.
With Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz sidelined for the season, Arsenal are currently without a recognised striker, prompting strong links to Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. In midfield, Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi has emerged as a key target.
While new arrivals are expected, departures are also on the cards, with Jorginho among those likely to leave. The Italian midfielder, whose contract expires this summer, has been heavily linked with a move to Brazilian side Flamengo.
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Reports suggest that Arteta was keen to retain Jorginho, but the club’s hierarchy opted against offering him a new deal. Arsenal have reportedly identified seven players set to be sold or released at the end of the season, with Jorginho on that list.
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The 32-year-old has now been spotted arriving in Rio de Janeiro, fuelling speculation over an imminent move to Flamengo. Though he has publicly stated that he is only in Brazil on holiday, reports indicate that talks over a potential three-year contract are at an advanced stage. Securing the midfielder’s signature would make him eligible to compete in the inaugural FIFA Super Club World Cup.
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According to reports, Flamengo are pushing hard to finalise the deal, though Jorginho also has offers from clubs in the UAE, Italy, and Japan. While nothing has been signed yet, Arteta is reportedly making a last-ditch attempt to convince him to stay at Arsenal.
Jorginho has also attracted interest from Besiktas, Fiorentina, and Palmeiras but has turned down those offers in favour of a return to Brazil. Despite being born in the country, he has never played professionally there, having left for Italy at the age of 15.
After a successful career in Europe—winning major trophies with Napoli, Chelsea, and Arsenal—the Euro 2020 winner appears set to return to his roots for what could be the final chapter of his playing career. Earlier in the season, he hinted that playing in Brazil was an exciting prospect, further strengthening speculation that a move to Flamengo could soon be finalised.
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