Arsenal have approached Chelsea over a dramatic deal to sign Jorginho before the January transfer window closes on Tuesday, according to two respected sources.

Jorginho is into the final six months of his contract with Chelsea, who are not expecting to renew his deal. Now, the Blues have been presented with a major dilemma after the topic of a late January sale to a London rival came into focus.

Both David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano – two of the most trustworthy sources out there – are reporting on Monday evening that Arsenal are eyeing a deal for Jorginho.

The Premier League leaders have been eager to strengthen their midfield this month if the right opportunity arises. They have failed with their bids for Brighton talent Moises Caicedo so far.

Therefore, Arsenal are now turning their attention to alternatives ahead of the 11pm deadline on Tuesday. And Jorginho has come to their attention.

According to Ornstein’s report for The Athletic, Arsenal have “expressed an interest” in Chelsea’s vice-captain.

There is a feeling that Chelsea might allow Jorginho to leave if they can wrap up their own signing of Enzo Fernandez from Benfica. They have been making significant progress in that regard, now making an offer that meets Benfica’s release clause.

Therefore, Chelsea could sanction a sale for Jorginho now – even to a local rival – rather than losing him for free at the end of the season.

Romano relays that Chelsea will still ask for an “important fee” to sell Jorginho after confirming their approach. It remains unclear exactly how much might do the trick.

Jorginho could add to table-topping Arsenal team

Arsenal have been trying to find a blend of youth and experience in their recruitment in recent months. For example, this January, they have brought in 28-year-old Leandro Trossard and 22-year-old Jakub Kiwior.

Now, they could add further experience to their title-pursuing squad. Jorginho, 31, would arrive at the Emirates Stadium as a former Champions League winner and Euro 2020 titlist.

In his position of holding midfield, Arsenal have mainly been relying on Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka. Their other options are Mohamed Elneny and Albert Sambi Lokonga.

Partey and Elneny have had some injury concerns recently, highlighting why Arsenal might need another option.

In the long term, someone like Caicedo would be ideal. But with Brighton refusing to budge, Arsenal have had to look at alternatives.

As a short-term option, Jorginho could be useful for a relatively inexperienced side chasing major honours.

Ornstein notes that Arsenal are not the only contenders to take him away from Chelsea. But the opportunity to stay in London might be something the player himself might not have even been expecting.

Therefore, especially given where the news is coming from, this is definitely a story to keep an eye on as deadline day approaches.

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