Chelsea star Marc Cucurella had a hilarious reaction after being told that Jorginho was signing for Arsenal.
The Gunners are on the verge of announcing a deal to sign the 31-year-old from their London rivals for a fee of around £12million.
Jorginho had entered the final six months of his contract while Arsenal have backed down from their efforts to sign Moises Caicedo from Brighton but were still keen to reinforce their midfield.
But not everyone was aware of the impending transfer, not least the Italian’s Chelsea teammate Cucurella, who was told of the move halfway through an interview with Goal.
After being asked who was the smartest player in the Blues squad, the 24-year-old said: “The smartest player in the squad is Jorginho, 100 per cent, because he…”
It was at this point a reporter interjected and revealed that Jorginho was on his way to the Emirates Stadium.
Cucurella looked shocked and replied: “No?! Arsenal, no? I would say Jorginho… or [do you want me to] change?”
The interviewer said: “I think you’ve got to change it. He’s gone to Arsenal. It’s happening today. There are photos of him [in an Arsenal shirt.”
In disbelief, Cucurella said “No!” before letting out a laugh in dismay.
Jorginho signed for Chelsea in 2018 alongside Maurizio Sarri and has 213 appearances for the club, winning the Champions League and Europa League along the way.
The Italy international finished third in the race for the Ballon d’Or in 2021 and has been commended for his ability to retain and control possession, though there are question marks over his place in Arsenal’s fast and energetic side.
Nevertheless, Mikel Arteta is a huge fan of the midfielder and was interested in signing him from Chelsea in 2020 but was rebuffed.
With Mohamed Elneny out injured for a significant amount of time and Thomas Partey also sidelined, adding some experience in the middle of the park could prove vital in their Premier League title charge.
Arsenal are five points clear of second-placed Manchester City at the top with a game in hand.
Read the full article here
