Arsenal close in on transfer for Chelsea star Jorginho as they give up on Moises Caicedo move

ARSENAL are reportedly nearing a deadline day deal for Chelsea midfielder Jorginho.

The Italian, 31, is set to join the Gunners as the Premier League leaders give up on their lengthy pursuit of Brighton star Moises Caicedo.

GettyJorginho is set to move across London on deadline day[/caption]

GettyArsenal are understood to have ended their pursuit of Moises Caicedo[/caption]

Mikel Arteta’s men had been chasing the Ecuadorian but seen bids of £60million and £70m rejected by the Seagulls.

Now The Athletic are reporting that their attempts to acquire Caicedo are “over” as Jorginho becomes the frontrunner to join Arsenal on deadline day.

It is understood they are “advancing towards an agreement” for the Chelsea man – who has struggled under Graham Potter.

Arsenal are keen to secure some top-level cover for Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka in holding midfield.

Mohamed Elneny is out injured, leaving Arteta light in the middle of the pitch.

And Chelsea are prepared to let Jorginho go as they look set to keep hold of Conor Gallagher.

The England international 22, was the subject of a £45m bid from Everton on Monday.

But a deal is not expected to be finalised, giving Potter the necessary cover to allow Jorginho to depart.

Chelsea have also brought midfielders Denis Zakaria, Carney Chukwuemeka and Andrey Santos in since the summer.

Jorginho arrived at Stamford Bridge from Napoli for £50million in 2018.

He has gone on to play 213 times for the club, contributing 29 goals and nine assists.

But a downturn in form has coincided with a difficult period for the entire club, with Chelsea down in 10th in the Premier League table.

More to follow.