Report: Arsenal targeting contract extension for midfield star

Arsenal are hoping to extend the contract of midfielder Jorginho, whose current deal at the club expires in the summer.

The Gunners moved for the experience Italian last January having missed out on a big-money move for Brighton's Moises Caicedo, who'd go on to join Chelsea in the summer. As a result, Jorginho arrived to little fanfare, but quickly established himself as a valuable member in Mikel Arteta's dressing room.

The midfielder has been sporadically used since joining the club, often being utilised in the latter stages of matches to restore control or bolster Arsenal's defensive security. He's made 41 appearances for the club, including 16 in the Premier League this season.

Arsenal targeting Jorginho contract extension

There was perhaps an expectation that the pair would part ways at the end of the season with Arsenal's midfield showing further signs of evolution following the signing of Declan Rice.

Rice's arrival initially thrust Jorginho out of starting contention, but Arteta has recently deployed the pair to tremendous effect. The Italian international delivered standout victories during Arsenal's February victories over Liverpool and Newcastle.

And as a result of his recent performances, the Gunners are keen to extend Jorginho's contract.

The Independent reports that Arsenal are set to offer the 32-year-old a one-year deal with the option of another year's extension.

However, a return to Serie A has not been ruled out for the Italian this summer. Joao Santos, the player's agent, recently talked up a return to the midfielder's 'homeland', adding that he would not "rule out" a Napoli reunion. But, he did note that Arsenal have "priority" in any discussions regarding Jorginho's future.

With Arsenal keen to retain Jorginho and further midfield reinforcements expected this summer, the signs are ominous for Thomas Partey. The Ghanaian is closing in on a return to action having been out since October, and he may well be playing for his Gunners career during the final stretch of the season - if he can stay fit.

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