Club director confirms negotiations with Arsenal midfielder over summer transfer

Flamengo director Jose Boto has confirmed the club are in negotiations with Arsenal midfielder Jorginho over a free transfer.

The 33-year-old is in the final few months of his contract at the Emirates Stadium and is expected to depart this summer, two years after joining from London rivals Chelsea in a deal worth around £12m.

The veteran midfielder's agent confirmed during the international break that talks would soon be held with Arsenal and a number of clubs across the globe, including in Brazil, where Jorginho was born before taking his talents to Italy as a teenager.

"We have never denied that he is a player that interests us," Boto said. "We are in a negotiation process and I never reveal anything about a negotiation process.

"What comes out in public, 99% of the time is not true. The ball is in his court, Jorginho's, and he will treat it well and will play this game with us."

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has repeatedly hailed Jorginho's professionalism and ability to perform in limited minutes. This season, the 57-cap Italy international has started just eight times in the Premier League, providing valuable cover for the likes of Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice.

While also considering his next career move, Jorginho is studying for his coaching badges as he eyes a position in football following his eventual retirement.

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