Jorginho's agent makes priorities clear and admits Arsenal talks at "standstill"

20 November 2023 , 17:49

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Jorginho's agent makes priorities clear and admits Arsenal talks at "standstill"

Jorginho's agent admits contract talks are "at a standstill" with a decision on the player's Arsenal future to come after February.

The Italian moved to the Emirates midway through last season, signing an 18-month deal with his minutes becoming limited at Chelsea. That situation is now facing him in north London leaving the midfielder with a decision to make ahead of the summer.

Jorginho's agent Joao Santos has told the Gunners that their priority is to remain at the Emirates but talks have not shown any progression. They are now content to sit tight until after the New Year when they will look to make a final decision.

He told TUTTOmercatoWEB: "Everything is at a standstill. We’ll think about it after February. However, the priority remains Arsenal." The 31-year-old is by no means assured of a place in the starting XI under Mikel Arteta.

He was signed last term to provide more depth with Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey commanding the midfield roles. Xhaka has since left with Declan Rice coming in for a club-record fee.

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That has allowed Arteta to play with just one sitting midfielder, furthering causing problems for Jorginho. Kai Havertz, signed in the summer from Chelsea, is also trying to find his best role in the Arsenal set-up with a midfielder berth among his possible positions.

Jorginho's future beyond this season is unclear (AFP via Getty Images)

Jorginho did cop criticism earlier this season when his error cost Arsenal in the north London derby against Tottenham. They twice came from behind to equalise and eventually left with a draw - the Italian's error in possession therefore proving costly.

Arteta though did back his player, who has started four times and made a further five substitute appearances. The Spaniard said: "They’re allowed to make errors because they play and we don’t play. For us, it’s really easy, but if there is someone who is willing to help the team and do the most of it, it’s Jorgi. We are all with him."

Arsenal are competing across several fronts this term and, as they look to land some much-needed silverware, rotation and a deep squad will be crucial. Arteta's thin playing group last term proved costly and this year they have managed to add more options.

Samuel Meade