Arsenal eye shock January transfer of Chelsea midfielder Jorginho as an alternative to Moises Caicedo after two unsuccessful offers for the Brighton star

Jorginho has become a shock target for Arsenal as they seek an alternative to Brighton’s Moises CaicedotalkSPORT understands.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has made the arrival of a new midfielder his top priority before the January transfer window closes at 11pm on Tuesday night.

Bids of £60m and £70m have been rebuffed by the Seagulls for Ecuador international Caicedo.

It was reported on Monday that the North Londoners were close to submitting a club-record £75m bid for the 21-year-old.

And now Arsenal are believed to be exploring the possibility of snatching Jorginho from rivals Chelsea with Brighton ready to stand firm on Caicedo.

Jorginho has been a key player for the Blues this season where he has played 25 games in all competitions.

But the 31-year-old is in the final six months of his contract at Stamford Bridge and it remains to be seen whether he will extend his stay.

His place in the starting XI is also in doubt, with Graham Potter’s side confident of signing Enzo Fernandez for a British record.

It has been said that Arsenal are one of the few clubs considering a potential move for the Brazilian-born Italy international.

Arteta is desperate to strengthen his midfield to cover Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka.

And the club know the clock is against them to strengthen their squad with just over 24 hours in the window.

Chelsea are said to be willing to allow the Euro 2020 winner to leave to avoid losing him on a free transfer this summer, although his wages could be an issue.

However, it is understood that any move for Jorginho will depend on whether Chelsea secure the services of Fernandez from Benfica.

Jorginho moved to Chelsea in 2018 from Napoli in a £50million move, with the player scoring 29 goals in 213 games in all competitions.

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