Arsenal have been praised by former defender Mikael Silvestre over their move for midfielder Jorginho on transfer deadline day. The Italian international made the switch from rivals Chelsea for a move worth an initial £10million, with £2million on top as potential add-ons.
The 31-year-old signed on an 18-month deal with an option for an extra year held by the club, with the transfer showing the need to add quality and depth to the squad. “Jorginho is a midfield player with intelligence, deep leadership skills and a huge amount of Premier League and international experience," Mikel Arteta said on his arrival to the club.
"Jorginho has won in his career, but he still has the hunger and huge willingness to contribute here. We are so pleased to sign Jorginho and welcome him and his family to the club.” While the switch divided some opinions amongst fans, many pundits believed it was a good deal.
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Included in that is Silvestre, who told bettingexpert: "Jorginho is not [Moises] Caicedo, but I think given the ambition of Arsenal to win the title and maintain that position on the top, I think it’s a good move. He’s bringing a lot of experience, he’s won the Champions League. I think it’s an excellent backup plan if he’s playing with dynamic central midfielders.”
Jorginho is a move with the short-term in mind, but beyond the next few months, attention may have to shift towards the future of the central ranks. 21-year-old Caicedo could still be that, having seen a £60million bid from the Gunners turned down by Brighton late in the window despite his desire to leave.
While the Seagulls have played hardball on an exit, Silvestre has tipped a move for the Ecuador international in the summer, saying: "I think Caicedo would have been a backup to start but one for the future. Young, energetic, understands the game and very committed offensively and defensively. Might be one for the summer. He’s done well at Brighton but I think the fee, for me, is a bit too much. He’s a good player and he would fit in the Arsenal way.”
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