Jorginho closing in Arsenal exit as talk progress with Flamengo

Jorginho extended his contract with Arsenal until June 2025 with an option for another year just last season, but he is now unlikely to renew his stay in north London any further.

Sources in Italy and England have heavily linked the Italy international with a summer transfer to Flamengo, with the veteran publicly admitting to wanting to return to Brazil as he has never played professionally there.

"Yes, in the future, it’s a possibility. As I’ve already mentioned, I have never played professionally in Brazil so it would be an incredible experience for me," he had told the media.

However, 'Goal Brasil' reports that a loyalty clause in his Arsenal deal could stand in the way of completing the move as Flamengo might need to pay the sum of the bonus if they wish to sign Jorginho before June 30.

Nevertheless, it is understood that the 33-year-old is firm in his decision to leave the Gunners and has reportedly flown to Rio de Janeiro himself to ensure a smooth progression in negotiations.

The target for Jorginho is said to be to finalise the deal before the start of the Club World Cup on June 16, with Flamengo set to face his former side Chelsea, Esperance and Mexico's Club Leon in the group stages.

Jorginho will be aiming to star in the tournament after falling in Mikel Arteta's pecking order at Arsenal. The Brazilian-born player has featured in just 12 of Arsenal's 29 league games this term, most of them being cameos from the bench.