Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal midfielder Jorginho is on the verge of completing a move to Brazilian giants Flamengo, with multiple sources confirming that the Italian international has arrived in Rio de Janeiro to finalise the transfer.
The 33-year-old, whose contract with Arsenal expires at the end of June, has been granted early permission to join Flamengo in time for the FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 17. According to reports from Fabrizio Romano andUOL Esporte, Jorginho is undergoing medical examinations and is expected to sign a three-year deal worth over £8 million.
In order to facilitate the move, Jorginho has agreed to terminate his Arsenal contract ahead of schedule, reportedly forgoing an £800,000 loyalty bonus. Arsenal, who chose not to offer a contract extension following unsuccessful negotiations earlier this year, have allowed him to leave as a free agent in recognition of his professionalism and contributions to the team.
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Jorginho joined the Gunners from Chelsea in January 2023 for €11.3 million and made 76 appearances in all competitions. A vocal presence in the dressing room and a dependable figure on the pitch, he played a key role in Mikel Arteta’s midfield, particularly during the 2023–24 campaign. However, his playing time dwindled this past season due to the emergence of Declan Rice, Thomas Partey, and Martin Ødegaard, limiting him to just six Premier League starts.
Jorginho
Jorginho (Image credit: Getty Images)
His final appearance for Arsenal came on April 12, 2025, in a 1-1 draw against Brentford, where he was substituted with what was initially thought to be a rib injury, later diagnosed as a lung issue. Despite hopes of a late-season return, his recovery timeline and imminent move suggest that match marked the end of his spell at the Emirates.
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Jorginho is expected to report to Flamengo by June 6 or 7 to begin preparations for the Club World Cup, where the Rio de Janeiro side will face ES Tunis in their opening fixture. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta previously lauded the veteran midfielder’s “hunger” and leadership, and the club’s decision to release him early is seen as a gesture of appreciation.
The transfer also marks a return to Jorginho’s country of birth. Though he represents Italy at the international level, the Brazil-born midfielder has long expressed interest in finishing his career in the country where he was raised. Flamengo, led by former Chelsea defender Filipe Luís and boasting a squad with several former Premier League players including Danilo and Alex Sandro, view Jorginho as a high-level playmaker who can add experience and composure to their midfield.
With medicals underway and contract terms nearly finalised, an official announcement is expected soon, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Jorginho and the end of his memorable stint at Arsenal.
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