A surprising turn of events could see Jorginho remain in red and white beyond the current season. Initial reports suggested the Italian midfielder was surplus to requirements, with Turkish clubs circling.

However, Mikel Arteta has reportedly had a change of heart.

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 04: Jorginho and Declan Rice of Arsenal celebrate after the team's victory in the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Liverpool FC at Emirates Stadium on February 04, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 04: Jorginho and Declan Rice of Arsenal celebrate after the team’s victory in the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Liverpool FC at Emirates Stadium on February 04, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

From transfer rumours to Arteta’s trust

Turkish news outlet Aksam initially reported Besiktas, Fenerbahce, and Galatasaray‘s interest in Jorginho. However, they claim the midfielder himself wants to stay and prove his worth at Arsenal. More importantly, he seems to have convinced Arteta, with whispers of contract extension talks already circulating.

Impressing the boss: Performance speaks volumes

Jorginho‘s recent inclusion in the starting lineup, culminating in a Player of the Match performance against Liverpool, appears to have won Arteta‘s approval. The manager himself praised Jorginho‘s application and impact, suggesting his contract option for an additional 12 months could be activated.

Contract decision looms: Will Arsenal trigger the extension?

Arsenal's English midfielder #41 Declan Rice celebrates with Arsenal's Italian midfielder #20 Jorginho (R) after scoring their late second goal during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in London on September 3, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s English midfielder #41 Declan Rice celebrates with Arsenal’s Italian midfielder #20 Jorginho (R) after scoring their late second goal during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in London on September 3, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal hold the option to extend Jorginho‘s contract and can trigger it up until the season’s end. While Arteta remains tight-lipped, his actions paint a clear picture.

Player speaks: Focus on the present, but Arsenal first

While Jorginho expresses his desire to enjoy the moment and prioritise winning with Arsenal, his agent suggests a decision on the extension won’t come before the end of this month. Nonetheless, Arsenal reportedly remains his preferred destination.