Arsenal have agreed a £12million deal with Chelsea to sign midfielder Jorginho on January transfer deadline day, football.london understands. The Gunners will pay £10million up front for the Italian international with a further £2million in add-ons.
The 31-year-old will join on an initial 18-month contract with the option to extend by a further year, adding some much needed depth to Mikel Arteta's central ranks. It comes amid concerns over the options available to the Spaniard as the Gunners continue their push for the Premier League title.
With Mohamed Elneny injured for a period of time as well as an injury scare surrounding Thomas Partey after he was substituted halfway through the FA Cup clash with Manchester City, the need for signings was clear. "We need some more cover in midfield ideally if we can, but in this market it is pretty complicated to do that," the manager said before deadline day.
READ MORE: Moises Caicedo to Arsenal transfer hope, Jorginho interest, Cedric exit, Youri Tielemans doubt
A £60million bid for Brighton star Moises Caicedo was rebuffed by the Seagulls, leaving the Gunners looking at contingency plans for the final few hours. However, in Jorginho the north London outfit have an experienced winner who could be the difference between them winning the league or missing out.
At 31 he may be beyond his best, but with few options in the January window, it could prove to be some smart business. When the move officially goes through, the Italian may only have a few numbers to pick from, having only ever worn five, eight and 19 in his club career.
Potential Arsenal shirt numbers available to Jorginho: 2, 13, 20*, 22*, 26, 28, 29, 30.
*20 - Nuno Tavares is on loan at Marseille
*22 - Pablo Mari is on loan at Monza
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