Arsenal 'explore' shock January swoop for Chelsea star as alternative to Caicedo

Chelsea star Jorginho has reportedly emerged as a shock target for Arsenal as a possible alternative to Brighton’s Moises Caicedo.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has made bringing in a new midfielder his main priority before the transfer window slams shut at 11pm on Tuesday night.

Offers of £60million and £70m have been knocked back by the Seagulls for Ecuador international Caicedo.

It was reported on Monday how the north Londoners were set to submit a club record £75m bid for the 21-year-old.

And according to The Athletic, Arsenal are exploring the possibility of snaring away Jorginho from rivals Chelsea with Brighton set to stand firm on Caicedo.

Jorginho has been a key player for the Blues this season where he has featured in 25 games in all competitions.

But the 31-year-old is into the final six months of his contract at Stamford Bridge and it remains to be seen whether he will extend his stay.

His place in the starting XI is also in doubt with Graham Potter’s side confident of signing Enzo Fernandez for a British record fee.

It has been said that Arsenal are one of a handful of clubs that are weighing up a potential swoop for the Brazilian-born Italy international.

The Athletic says that Arteta is desperate to bolster his midfield to provide cover for Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka.

And the club know that time is against them to add to their squad with just over 24 hours left of the window.

Chelsea could also be willing to allow the Euro 2020 winner to depart to avoid losing him on a free transfer in the summer.

Though it is understood that any move for Jorginho will depend on whether Chelsea secure the services of Benfica’s Fernandez.

Jorginho made the move to Chelsea in 2018 from Napoli, with the player scoring 29 goals in 213 games in all competitions.

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