Arsenal approach Chelsea for Jorginho transfer as Enzo Fernandez edges closer

Arsenal have made a late approach to sign Chelsea midfielder Jorginho as a move for Moises Caicedo looks unlikely, while the Blues are set to sign Enzo Fernandez, according to reports.

The Gunners were heavily linked with a move for former Chelsea target Caicedo and saw two bids rejected, with the second in the region of £70 million.

It looks unlikely that Brighton and Hove Albion will sell the Ecuador international before Tuesday’s transfer deadline.

Therefore, Chelsea turned their attention back to Fernandez who was a top target at the beginning of the month.

The Blues re-entered negotiations for the Argentinian and are believed to be closing in on a deal worth in excess of £105 million for the 22-year-old.

With league leaders Arsenal in need of a midfielder in the January transfer window, it appears they have turned their attention to a Chelsea star.

As reported by David Ornstein, Arsenal are one of a number of clubs exploring the possibility of signing Jorginho.

The midfielder is out of contract in the summer and Chelsea would be open to an exit, depending on the signing of Fernandez.

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano added to this by stating that Arsenal made an approach to Chelsea for Jorginho.

It is said to be an option if their deal for Caicedo doesn’t go through as Brighton remain reluctant to sell.

Chelsea will reportedly ask for an ‘important fee’ if they are to let the Italian leave before the end of his contract in June.

It remains to be seen as to whether the Blues will allow Jorginho to leave to a London rival, but they have previously let the likes of David Luiz, Willian and Petr Cech move to the Gunners.

With just a day left of the January transfer window, Chelsea hold the power if Arsenal do make a formal move for the midfielder.

As Fernandez closes in on a move to Stamford Bridge, Conor Gallagher has also received interest as Everton reportedly made a bid for the England international.

Jorginho’s future looks unclear for now, but if Arsenal are unable to get Caicedo, the Italian could find himself playing in north London.