Jorginho departs Chelsea for Arsenal in £12m deal on Deadline Day

Jorginho has left Chelsea to join Premier League leaders Arsenal after sealing a switch on Deadline Day.

The 31-year-old departs Chelsea after four-and-a-half-years at the club, which has seen him lift the Europa League, Champions League, Super Cup and Club World Cup.

Jorginho, a divisive figure at Chelsea amongst supporters, has signed a one-and-a-half-year deal with Arsenal until June 2024, with the option for a further year.

He was out of contract this summer and Chelsea have opted to bring in a transfer fee for the Italy international, with the deal believed to be worth in excess of £10 million plus add-ons.

After being given permission to travel to London Coleby on Tuesday morning, Jorginho completed his medical before signing for Mikel Arteta’s side, who reportedly was a key driving factor behind a deal for him.

Jorginho said: “He (Arteta) was a big influence because I know that he tried a few times to get me before and it didn’t happen due to other reasons, not because of my wishes. So of course, he had a big influence.

“I’m very excited for this new challenge, and I just can’t wait to be on the pitch to be honest! Everything has happened so fast. I was a bit surprised, but I took the opportunity of this amazing challenge.

“It’s an important shirt. It’s an amazing club, a big one, and I’m really excited and happy to be here.”

Mikel Arteta said: “Jorginho is a midfield player with intelligence, deep leadership skills and a huge amount of Premier League and international experience.

“Jorginho has won in his career, but he still has the hunger and huge willingness to contribute here.”

Edu added: “He is a player who fits our style of play, and he joins us at a very good moment where he can contribute in a key position to help maintain our momentum. We welcome Jorginho to Arsenal.”

Jorginho will wear the number 20 for Arsenal.