‘Medical Arranged’ – Arsenal Transfer Set to be Completed | OneFootball

Jorginho Set for Flamengo Switch as Arsenal Midfield Reshuffle Begins

As the summer transfer window kicks into gear, Arsenal fans can begin to bid farewell to one of their more experienced midfielders. Jorginho, the Brazil-born Italian international, is reportedly “set for a medical” with Flamengo on Friday 6 June ahead of a free transfer move, according to a report from De Globo.

The 32-year-old midfielder, who joined the Gunners from Chelsea in January 2023, will leave the club on 30 June when his contract officially expires. His departure marks the start of an expected overhaul in midfield as Mikel Arteta reshapes his squad in pursuit of Premier League glory.

Flamengo Beckons for Jorginho

De Globo report that Jorginho is expected to fly to Rio de Janeiro in the early hours of Friday morning and will undergo a medical shortly after. Once completed, the veteran midfielder is anticipated to sign a contract with Flamengo, where he will wear the number 21 shirt.

Photo: IMAGO

This move brings Jorginho’s time at Arsenal to an end after 79 appearances and two goals. While his signing raised some eyebrows initially, the experienced Italian played a steadying role in a young Arsenal side pushing for the title.

Though not a headline-grabber, his ability to control the tempo, retain possession and offer tactical intelligence made him a trusted figure for Arteta in key matches. That said, Arsenal’s ambitions have clearly outgrown the need for a player nearing the twilight of his career.

Zubimendi the Likely Successor

With Jorginho out, the Gunners’ attention turns to long-time midfield target Martín Zubimendi. The Real Sociedad midfielder has reportedly verbally agreed to join Arsenal and is seen as the ideal replacement.

The 26-year-old Spaniard, known for his composure under pressure and elite passing range, is widely tipped to take over the role Jorginho leaves behind. Arsenal are expected to activate his €60 million (£50.6m) release clause.

Zubimendi, however, added a note of caution earlier this week. Speaking while on duty with the Spanish national team, he said:

“Of course there are options, but it’s true that it seems like it’s going to be a different, long summer, and I don’t know how it will end.

I don’t think thinking about it right now is my priority. I’m here with the [Spain] national team, which I think is already quite demanding, and if I have to say something, then I will.”

While this doesn’t confirm a move is off, it does suggest the transfer may not be as imminent as some fans might hope.

Arteta’s Midfield Puzzle

Jorginho isn’t the only midfielder whose future is in question. Thomas Partey’s deal is also due to expire, although talks are ongoing to extend his stay at the Emirates. Arteta reportedly wants to retain the Ghanaian, possibly as a depth option alongside any new additions.

In addition, Arsenal have already confirmed the exits of Kieran Tierney, Raheem Sterling and Neto, which further highlights the club’s intent to refresh the squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

This planned midfield evolution is strategic. With Zubimendi targeted and Declan Rice already central to Arteta’s plans, the Gunners want to ensure their engine room is durable, dynamic and press-resistant — qualities needed to topple Manchester City and go one better than last season.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As an Arsenal supporter, the news that Jorginho is set to leave isn’t shocking — but it does invite reflection. There’s a certain respect due to players like him who, despite limited time, brought professionalism, leadership and experience to a young side. He might not have had the legs for a full-throttle Premier League campaign anymore, but he undoubtedly had the brain.

His move to Flamengo feels fitting, offering a return to his roots and perhaps a final chapter with silverware in South America. But the bigger picture here is Zubimendi. If Arsenal can land him, this feels like a significant upgrade. He’s composed under pressure, reads the game intelligently, and has the technical quality to help Arsenal dominate in possession.

Yet there’s a niggling worry. Zubimendi’s comments show he’s in no rush. Could another club swoop in? Are Arsenal once again risking a delay that could cost them a key target?

The club must move decisively. Losing Jorginho is manageable — but missing out on his successor could destabilise Arteta’s entire midfield project.