Jorginho has revealed that he was surprised at Arsenal’s transfer interest in him as the Italian midfielder completed a deadline-day move from Chelsea to the north London outfit.
Arsenal moved for Jorginho late in the 2023 January transfer window after Brighton & Hove Albion turned down their bids for Moises Caicedo, who had also attracted transfer interest from Chelsea.
Jorginho had entered the final six months of his contract with Chelsea, with the midfielder’s contract with the Stamford Bridge outfit due to expire at the end of the 22/23 season.
Arsenal, who are leading the race for the Premier League 22/23 title, signed Jorginho on a contract that runs until 2024 with an option for a further year in a £12m deal.
Mikel Arteta a big factor in Jorginho’s decision to join Arsenal
Speaking after becoming an Arsenal player, Jorginho revealed that Mikel Arteta was a big influence in his decision to sign for the Gunners. He also admitted that he was a bit surprised by the transfer interest Arsenal showed in him.
Also Read: PSG Appealed to Approve Hakim Ziyech’s Transfer From Chelsea
“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,” Jorginho said.
“So of course, he had a big influence. I’m very excited about 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.”
Jorginho has left Chelsea after 213 appearances for the Stamford Bridge outfit. He joined Chelsea from Napoli in the summer transfer window of 2018.
Meanwhile, Arsenal will be hoping the addition of Jorginho will help them in their pursuit of the Premier League title. The Gunners currently sit atop the Premier League points table with 50 points from 19 matches.
Arsenal enjoys a five-point lead over second-placed Manchester City, who have 45 points from 20 matches.
Meanwhile, Arsenal will face Everton in the Premier League in their next game. The match between Arsenal and Everton kicks off at 6:00 pm Indian Standard Time on February 4.
