Italy international Jorginho admits Mikel Arteta had a ‘big influence’ in his Arsenal transfer from Chelsea: ‘I know he tried a few times to get me before and it didn’t happen…’
The Gunners have confirmed the purchase of the ex-Napoli midfielder who had a contract expiring in June with their city rivals Chelsea.
For this reason, they were able to secure his signature for circa €13.5m including add-ons.
Jorginho has signed a contract until June 2024 at the Emirates Stadium.
It was probably the biggest news on the deadline day of the January transfer window and it was the Italy international to explain his decision to join the Gunners from Chelsea. The 2020 Euro winner admitted Arteta had a big influence on his choice.
“He was a big influence because I know that he tried a few times to get me before and it didn’t happen due to other reasons, not because of my wishes. So of course, he had a big influence,” Jorginho told Arsenal’s official website.
“I’m very excited for this new challenge, and I just can’t wait to be on the pitch to be honest! Everything has happened so fast. I was a bit surprised, but I took the opportunity of this amazing challenge.
“It’s an important shirt. It’s an amazing club, a big one, and I’m really excited and happy to be here.”
Arteta added that “Jorginho is a midfield player with intelligence, deep leadership skills and a huge amount of Premier League and international experience. He has won in his career, but he still has the hunger and huge willingness to contribute here.”
Arsenal director Edu said “Jorginho is an established professional with a strong mentality who brings quality and experience into our squad.
“He is a player who fits our style of play, and he joins us at a very good moment where he can contribute in a key position to help maintain our momentum. We welcome Jorginho to Arsenal.”
Jorginho joined Chelsea in 2018 from Napoli for €57m alongside the Partenopei boss Maurizio Sarri. He scored 29 goals in 213 appearances with the Blues winning, among other trophies, a Champions League and a Europa League.