Barcelona Identify This Arsenal Midfielder As A Target: Good Option For Xavi?

In a recent report, ESPN stated that Barcelona have identified Arsenal midfielder Jorginho as a target. It has been stated that the Catalan club are eyeing a move to sign the Italy international when he becomes a free agent next summer.

Jorginho’s Important Role At The Emirates Stadium This Season

Jorginho has been a useful member of Mikel Arteta’s match-day squad this season and has done well to put in a few solid displays for the Gunners at the centre of the park.

The Italian sensation has made eight appearances for the North London outfit during this campaign across all fronts.

Jorginho has seen most of his game time come off the bench which could be why he is only averaging 0.7 tackles, 0.2 interceptions and 0.2 clearances per game in the Premier League. However, he has been excellent when distributing possession from midfield after completing 93.8% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).

Barcelona
Arsenal’s Italian midfielder #20 Jorginho (L) and Crystal Palace’s French striker #22 Odsonne Edouard compete during the English Premier League football match between Crystal Palace and Arsenal at Selhurst Park in south London on August 21, 2023. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or ‘live’ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Is Jorginho A Good Option For Barcelona Boss Xavi?

Jorginho is a tough-tackling midfielder who can read the danger well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when needed and is proficient at retaining possession at the centre of the park.

The Italian sensation is a specialist from the penalty spot as well. Hence, he would be a good, short-term option for Barcelona head coach Xavi to consider next summer.

At 31, Jorginho might still have a few good seasons left in him to play at a high level. Hence, it makes sense for the Catalan club to offer him a chance when the player becomes a free agent at the end of this campaign. Jorginho is vastly experienced at the highest level and won’t take much time to settle into life at the Nou Camp.