Mikel Arteta’s midfield metronome, Jorginho, has sent a strong message by snubbing advances from two Turkish suitors, Besiktas and Trabzonspor.

Despite limited playing time at the Emirates, the Italian maestro appears determined to prove his worth in north London rather than seek solace in the Süper Lig.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND: Jamaal Lascelles of Newcastle United clashes with Jorginho of Arsenal following the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on November 04, 2023. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND: Jamaal Lascelles of Newcastle United clashes with Jorginho of Arsenal following the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on November 04, 2023. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Jorginho’s Arsenal career hasn’t quite hit the high notes expected of a player Arteta actively brought in. Reduced minutes have fuelled speculation of a January exit, with the Euros looming on the horizon. Yet, two Turkish offers haven’t been enough to lure him away.

Besiktas made their interest known first, followed by Trabzonspor, according to Hasan Tuncel of Sports Digitale. However, as Tuncel reveals, Jorginho “did not accept” the move to either club. This firm stance suggests that while minutes are indeed a concern, the 31-year-old doesn’t intend to downgrade his playing environment.

Arsenal's Italian midfielder #20 Jorginho (C) celebrates with teammates after their opening goal during the UEFA Champions League Group B football match between Arsenal and Sevilla at the Emirates Stadium in north London on November 8, 2023. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Italian midfielder #20 Jorginho (C) celebrates with teammates after their opening goal during the UEFA Champions League Group B football match between Arsenal and Sevilla at the Emirates Stadium in north London on November 8, 2023. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Trabzonspor, currently sitting third in the Süper Lig, may not have matched Jorginho’s ambitions. He, as evidenced by his glittering CV that boasts stints at Napoli and Chelsea, craves a stage befitting his pedigree. This could mean waiting for opportunities at Arsenal, a club with Champions League aspirations, or pursuing a move to another European outfit offering a similar level of competition.

The transfer window remains open, and the future holds no guarantees. Nonetheless, Jorginho’s rejection of these Turkish proposals hints at a steely resolve. He could be preparing to fight for his place in Arteta’s plans or waiting for the right opportunity to arise elsewhere.

One thing is clear: the Italian veteran isn’t about to settle for anything less than what he believes he deserves.