Arsenal have blocked transfer for ‘excellent’ star, he wants to leave in the summer

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The narrative around Arsenal’s January transfer window has been dominated by potential incoming signings, but departure deals have also been in the works.

The Gunners are desperate to add a striker to Mikel Arteta’s ranks, with several links to multiple players circulating.

Ollie Watkins is a target for Arsenal, although Aston Villa boss Unai Emery believes the number nine is happy at Villa Park.

Meanwhile, Mathys Tel is an option after he rejected Tottenham, but they face competition from the likes of Manchester United and Villa for the Frenchman’s signature.

In the midst of these reports, Arsenal have prevented a key player from leaving N5 this month, as they look to maintain their squad depth.

Arsenal block Jorginho exit

A summer rebuild is expected in midfield at the Emirates.

Martin Zubimendi is likely to sign for Arsenal, while the North London club are keen on adding Norwegian wonderkid Sverre Nypan to Arteta’s ensemble.

Meanwhile, Thomas Partey and Jorginho are expected to depart when their contracts expire at the end of the season.

However, the latter was actually potentially in line to leave Arsenal this month.

According to Globo, the Gunners blocked a prospective move to Brazilian side Flamengo for Jorginho.

It’s understood that the Serie A outfit had engaged in talks with the Italian over a winter deal, but Arsenal weren’t willing to sanction the departure.

Jorginho remains a key member of Arteta’s squad, rotating in for the likes of Partey and Declan Rice regularly.

Arsenal didn’t feel comfortable with reducing their midfield depth without a replacement mid-way through the season.

However, Flamengo and Jorginho remain in talks over a pre-contract agreement for the summer, with the deep-lying playmaker eager to complete a switch to his country of birth.

The two parties are locked in negotiations, and it’s believed that matters of salary and length of contract are close to being agreed.

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Arsenal need Jorginho for the rest of this season

While not renewing Jorginho’s contract is the right thing to do, given his age and declining athleticism, Arsenal need the player for the remainder of this season.

Arteta has described Jorginho as ‘excellent’ this campaign, with his performances not showcasing a considerable drop-off at all.

Partey isn’t physically robust enough to play every three days at this level at this stage of his career, while Rice is needed as an option at left eight.

Thus, Jorginho will continue to play a sporadic but important role this season, filling in when needed.

In the summer, Arsenal can look to renovate what has become an ageing midfield department.