Arsenal Star Drops Major Transfer Hint with Summer Exit Likely | OneFootball

Jorginho Weighs Up Arsenal Exit Amid Flamengo Interest

Arsenal midfielder Jorginho has sparked speculation over his future by admitting his curiosity about a potential move back to Brazil. The 33-year-old has attracted significant interest from Flamengo, who remain determined to secure his signature after missing out in the winter transfer window.

With Flamengo preparing for the inaugural 32-team FIFA Club World Cup in June, the Rio de Janeiro giants are keen to bolster their squad with Jorginho’s experience and quality. The midfielder’s contract at Arsenal is set to expire at the end of June, presenting a narrow window for the move to materialise.

Brazilian Roots and Unfulfilled Ambition

Born and raised in Brazil, Jorginho moved to Italy at just 16 years old, gaining citizenship and eventually representing the Azzurri at the international level. Despite a successful career in European football, including stints at Chelsea and now Arsenal, he has never played professional football in his homeland.

Reflecting on the opportunity, Jorginho expressed intrigue about experiencing football in Brazil. Speaking to ESPN Brasil, he said:

“I don’t believe that I missed out. But I am curious, today, to know what it’s like [to play in Brazil], to experience it.“But for my growth, playing professionally was not a problem. It helped me when I was a child, for my growth. In Brazil, it’s different. I played barefoot on the street, on the beach. I think that helped me a lot in terms of growing up in contact with the ball.”

Photo: IMAGO

Flamengo are optimistic about completing the deal and have already outlined plans for Jorginho’s involvement in the FIFA Club World Cup. With FIFA granting a short additional transfer window in June for participating clubs, the Brazilian outfit hopes to finalise the move before the tournament kicks off on 14 June.

The Financial Factor

One potential stumbling block, however, is the financial implication of leaving Arsenal early. Departing before his contract officially ends would see Jorginho forgo a loyalty bonus that he would otherwise receive. Whether Flamengo can present a package lucrative enough to offset that loss remains uncertain.

Despite this, the draw of representing Flamengo on the world stage could prove decisive. The Club World Cup, scheduled to run from 14 June to 13 July, is a prestigious competition that would offer Jorginho the chance to compete against some of the globe’s elite clubs.

Flamengo’s Confidence in Completing the Deal

Flamengo sporting director Jose Boto has made it clear that the decision ultimately rests with Jorginho, telling Brazilian journalist Vene Casagrande:

“The ball is in his court. If everything goes well, he will play in the World Cup for Flamengo. The league ends in May, the players change clubs, and there is an agreement between the clubs to release the athletes as soon as the season ends.”

Flamengo’s determination to bring Jorginho back to Brazil is not in doubt, but the final call remains with the player himself. Whether the allure of playing on Brazilian soil after a distinguished European career will outweigh the financial considerations is yet to be seen.

As Arsenal’s season draws to a close, Jorginho faces a career-defining choice: remain in Europe and see out his contract or return to his roots for one final challenge. The midfielder’s next step could shape not just his legacy but also Flamengo’s aspirations on the global stage.