Flamengo technical director José Boto has confirmed that any deal to bring Jorginho to Brazil will only be completed once the current European season ends, despite months of speculation linking the Arsenal midfielder with a move to South America.
The 33-year-old, whose contract at Arsenal expires this summer, is widely expected to leave the club — and Flamengo are now firm favourites to secure his signature.
Jorginho ready for the next chapter
Arsenal have reportedly held internal talks over offering Jorginho a short-term contract extension, but the player is believed to be open to a new challenge in Brazil to round off an accomplished career that has included spells at Napoli, Chelsea, and the Gunners.
Flamengo have been quietly advancing negotiations behind the scenes, with the deal considered a strategic one ahead of their Club World Cup campaign this summer.
However, speaking to Brazilian outlet Flazoeiro, Flamengo chief José Boto made the club’s position clear:
“If Jorginho comes, it will be after the season in Europe ends. I hope it will be in time for the World Cup.”
Mixed messages from Flamengo camp
While Boto seems confident about a post-season move, Flamengo manager Filipe Luís was far more guarded when asked about the situation:
“I didn’t know about this news,” Luís told reporters.
“I speak to Boto every day and he didn’t tell me about it. Jorginho is an Arsenal player. I can’t talk about players who aren’t from Flamengo. He’s a great player; I have a lot of respect for him. It’s good that Flamengo is looking at this type of high-level player to improve our squad even more. But at the moment, I don’t know.”
The public silence may be deliberate, as Flamengo look to avoid distractions during a busy domestic and international schedule.
Arsenal’s midfield evolution underway
For Arsenal, Jorginho’s exit would mark another step in Mikel Arteta’s midfield reshaping. With Thomas Partey’s future also uncertain and Arsenal actively pursuing younger midfielders, Jorginho’s departure would free up room — both financially and tactically — for fresh energy.
Jorginho joined Arsenal in January 2023, helping steady the midfield during a title challenge run. While never a long-term solution, his presence brought control, experience, and leadership to a developing core.
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If Flamengo do finalise the deal post-season, Jorginho’s time at the Emirates will end with quiet admiration — and no hard feelings.
