Arsenal may have to field offers for Jorginho after Galatasaray turned their focus away from Casemiro.
The Turkish transfer market doesn’t close until September 13 and some of the country’s leading outfits are still seeking to bolster their ranks. And Galatasaray, the defending champions, had been eyeing a move for Manchester United’s Brazilian midfielder.
Casemiro though has made it clear he wants to remain at Old Trafford – and Erik ten Hag wants to retain him – leaving the Turkish side looking elsewhere. Jorginho has now been identified as a target with the Arsenal midfielder yet to feature for the Gunners this season – and could have his head turned.
The Italian provides some strong depth for Mikel Arteta as well as some much needed experience. At 32 though the former Chelsea man is likely to prioritise minutes and Galatasaray are ready to test Arsenal’s resolve – especially with less than a year to run on Jorginho’s deal.
The Gunners though are unlikely to sanction Jorginho’s departure – especially without being able to bring in a replacement, claims The Sun. Arteta knows that he’ll be without new signing Mikel Merino for several weeks after he picked up an injury whilst Declan Rice will also be suspended in the short-term.
Galatasaray have shown their ambition this summer by landing Victor Osimhen. The Napoli frontman had no future with the Serie A side and the Turkish champions opted to sign him on loan after potential moves to Chelsea and Saudi Arabia had failed to materialise.
The Nigerian said after his switch was confirmed: “When I heard of the interest from Galatasaray, it was a very easy decision for me. I knew how big Galatasaray was and how much like a family it was, and it had incredible fans.”
Arsenal themselves have had to resist late bids for some of their players. Leandro Trossard, who has become increasingly influential, was of Saudi interest but the north Londoners rejected an offer and will retain the versatile Belgian.
Their summer business was completed with the deadline day loan capture of Raheem Sterling, who had played under Arteta previously at Manchester City. Riccardo Calafiori and Merino have been their notable signings whilst David Raya’s loan move was made permanent.
