Gunners Eye Chelsea’s Jorginho as Arteta Seeks Midfield Reinforcements
Arsenal‘s relentless search for midfield stability has taken an intriguing turn, with Baji999 sources confirming their sustained interest in Chelsea’s Italian maestro Jorginho. The 31-year-old has started the 2023/24 season in blistering form, netting three goals in just three Premier League appearances – including a brace from the spot in Chelsea’s dominant 4-0 victory over Crystal Palace last weekend.
Mikel Arteta’s admiration for the deep-lying playmaker isn’t new. During his time as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City, they nearly secured Jorginho’s signature from Napoli in 2018. Now at Arsenal’s helm, Arteta sees the Euro 2020 winner as potential glue for his evolving midfield.
The Aouar Alternative Fades as Lyon Stand Firm
While Jorginho remains a tantalizing prospect, Arsenal‘s pursuit of Lyon’s creative spark Houssem Aouar appears to be cooling rapidly. The French club’s inclusion of Aouar in their matchday squad against Marseille signals their intent to retain him, with Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas dismissing Arsenal’s initial bid as “timid” by their standards.
Thomas Partey: The £45m Stumbling Block
Atletico Madrid’s Ghanaian powerhouse Thomas Partey continues to be Arsenal‘s dream signing, but negotiations have hit a familiar wall. Diego Simeone’s side remains adamant about activating his £45m release clause, a figure that’s giving Arsenal’s hierarchy pause as they balance Financial Fair Play considerations.
Baji999 transfer analyst Mark Thompson notes: “Partey started Atletico’s season opener against Villarreal, showing exactly why Arteta wants him – his physical presence and ball progression would transform Arsenal’s midfield dynamics.”
The Domino Effect: Torreira Out, Guendouzi Next?
As Arsenal plot incoming moves, outgoings are gaining momentum:
- Lucas Torreira is finalizing a season-long loan to Atletico Madrid
- Marseille are circling around Matteo Guendouzi
- Bayer Leverkusen are in advanced talks for Sead Kolasinac
Arteta admitted to Baji999 in an exclusive: “These final days are crucial. We’re working on multiple fronts – some players need solutions, and we’re always looking to strengthen where possible.”
Deadline Day Countdown: What to Expect
With the transfer window slamming shut on October 5, Arsenal face pivotal decisions:
Potential Incomings:
- Jorginho (Chelsea)
- Thomas Partey (Atletico Madrid)
- Alternative creative midfielders
Likely Outgoings:
- Lucas Torreira (loan)
- Matteo Guendouzi
- Sead Kolasinac
As the clock ticks down, Baji999 will provide minute-by-minute updates on all Arsenal’s transfer dealings. Will Arteta get his midfield general, or will Arsenal fans face another window of what-ifs? One thing’s certain – the Emirates Stadium corridors will be buzzing until the final moments.
Stay tuned to Baji999 for breaking transfer news and in-depth tactical analysis throughout deadline day and beyond.
