Mikel Arteta blocks exit of Arsenal star in final moments of the transfer window | OneFootball

Arsenal have failed to strengthen the squad in the January transfer window.

They were expected to sign a new striker to lead their attack as that has been the position where they have lacked firepower this season.

The Gunners are behind Liverpool in the race to win the Premier League title and they were widely expected to sign a big name attacker.

They made their move for Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins but their attempt was swiftly blocked by Unai Emery’s side.

Mikel Arteta has now blocked the exit of experienced midfielder Jorginho from the club who was being chased by Brazilian side Flamengo.

The Brazilian club are interested in a move for the former Chelsea man but Arteta is not ready to let the midfielder leave the club because he feels that his squad is already short and they would need the presence of Jorginho in the latter stages of the season.

Journalist Vene Casagrande provided the update on his X account:

“It’s been hammered down! Jose Boto heard from Arteta that Jorginho will not be released now by Arsenal.

“The coach’s main justification is that the English team’s squad is already short due to injuries and there is no time for signings.

“Now, Flamengo will work with the midfielder’s representatives to sign a pre-contract and secure the player from the middle of the year, before the World Cup, with a three-year contract.

“Jorginho has already said that he liked Flamengo’s project and is willing to transfer to the Brazilian club.”

Arsenal want Jorginho to stay at the club till the summer

Jorginho in action for Arsenal.

The move might have come at the wrong time for Jorginho since his services are desperately required at the Emirates Stadium.

Even though the Gunners are second favourites to win the league, they still expect to take Liverpool till the end of the season in their quest for a Premier League title.

There are suggestions that Jorginho will leave the club in the summer transfer window and the Brazilian club will offer him a three-year deal, something that he will not get at Arsenal.

The 33-year-old is most likely coming to the end of his time in English football and Flamengo’s project is something that excites him.