Rumours are circulating about the potential transfer of Arsenal midfielder Jorginho back to Italy with the player apparently open to the idea.

According to La Lazio Siamo Noi, Maurizio Sarri has expressed interest in signing the player for Lazio after managing him at Chelsea and Napoli.

TOPSHOT - Arsenal's Italian midfielder Jorginho eyes the ball during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Brighton and Hove Albion at the Emirates Stadium in London on May 14, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
TOPSHOT – Arsenal’s Italian midfielder Jorginho eyes the ball during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Brighton and Hove Albion at the Emirates Stadium in London on May 14, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
  • Arsenal’s Jorginho is rumoured to be keen on a move back to Italy, with Lazio showing interest.
  • Despite having a year left on his contract with Arsenal, the cost of the transfer should not be a significant barrier given Jorginho’s age and upcoming free agency.
  • The signing remains a possibility, with the most challenging issue being Jorginho’s salary.

Jorginho, currently plying his trade at Arsenal, finds himself amidst the transfer rumours, sparking speculation of his return to Italy.

Lazio, managed by Maurizio Sarri, have emerged as a potential suitor for the Italian-Brazilian midfielder.

FLORENCE, ITALY - JUNE 06:  Jorginho of Italy looks on during an Italy Training Session at Forte Village Resort on June 06, 2023 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY – JUNE 06: Jorginho of Italy looks on during an Italy Training Session at Forte Village Resort on June 06, 2023 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

Reportedly, a meeting between Sarri and Lazio president Claudio Lotito saw Jorginho’s name being brought into conversation.

The Arsenal midfielder, who reportedly ‘wouldn’t mind a return’ to his homeland, appears to be on the brink of leaving the Gunners, despite having a year left on his contract according to the news from Italy.

It’s believed that the cost of the operation won’t pose a significant challenge for the Serie A side, particularly since Jorginho will turn 32 soon and becomes a free agent next year.

However, his £110kpw salary stands as a considerable hurdle, requiring a creative approach by Lazio.

FLORENCE, ITALY - JUNE 07: Jorginho of Italy warms up during training session at Forte Village Resort on June 07, 2023 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
FLORENCE, ITALY – JUNE 07: Jorginho of Italy warms up during training session at Forte Village Resort on June 07, 2023 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

Sarri and Jorginho share a history of working together at Napoli and Chelsea. Sarri, now at the helm of Lazio, seems eager to rekindle this partnership.

The Italian club’s intentions, however, remain in the exploratory stage, with more substantial steps likely to be undertaken soon.

Adding a player of Jorginho’s calibre and experience to their squad could prove a significant asset for Lazio.

The club is on the cusp of a double commitment between the championship and the Champions League next season, necessitating a top-tier squad.

SANTA MARGHERITA DI PULA, ITALY - JUNE 08:  Jorginho of Italy reacts during training session at Forte Village Resort on June 08, 2023 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
SANTA MARGHERITA DI PULA, ITALY – JUNE 08: Jorginho of Italy reacts during training session at Forte Village Resort on June 08, 2023 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

The feasibility of the move is currently under scrutiny, considering the significant costs involved.

But with Sarri’s evident enthusiasm for the potential reunion, a summer move could be on the horizon for the Arsenal player.

Given the Serie A club’s aspirations and Jorginho’s openness to a return to Italy, the coming weeks will certainly be interesting for all parties involved.

Jorginho’s current contract with Arsenal will expire in 2024. Having spent the last five seasons in the Premier League, the lure of a return to Italy, particularly if a call from Sarri materialises, could prove too strong to resist.

His potential departure from the Gunners will undoubtedly bring a chapter in his Premier League career to a close, paving the way for new Italian adventures.