Jamie Carragher gives surprise Moises Caicedo and Jorginho verdict as Arsenal close on deal for Chelsea ace

By Derren Howard
Published 31st Jan 2023, 12:25 BST
Updated 31st Jan 2023, 12:44 BST
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Brighton and Hove Albion seem to have completed their main objective this transfer window as they fended off serious interest in Moises Caicedo

Former Liverpool and England defender Jamie Carragher believes Arsenal have found a great alternative after missing out on Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo.

The Gunners had an initial bid of around £60m rejected by the Seagulls for Caicedo and they returned with a second offer of around £65m, which was also swotted away by Albion.

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Brighton, who are sixth in the Premier League, held firm and want to keep their key midfielder as they aim for European qualification this term. Failing to land their No 1 January target was a blow for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal as they prepare for their title run-in. They have now turned their attentions to Chelsea’s experienced midfield man Jorginho who is expected to seal a switch to the Emirates for around £12m.

Moises Caicedo wanted to move to Arsenal this transfer window but Brighton held firmMoises Caicedo wanted to move to Arsenal this transfer window but Brighton held firm
Moises Caicedo wanted to move to Arsenal this transfer window but Brighton held firm

Carragher, speaking on Sky Sports, believes it’s a good move by Arsenal despite fears that Italian may not fit their swift style of play. “I felt Arsenal would sign a big name striker because of the Jesus situation. They brought [Leo] Trossard in and Trossard may well end up being an impact player from the bench.”

Carragher added: "They have a problem in midfield. So far they have been fortunate that the two main guys [in midfield] have played all season without being injured. They needed to bring someone in and they were going for Caicedo but they cannot get that one done at Brighton, so they have had to look at other players.

"Jorginho is interesting and I can understand it. Arsenal play so quick and fast and he is the opposite, I get that. But I also think when there is only 10 games to go, in the pressure moments when the nerves are coming on, he could be a really good signing in terms of slowing things down, cool heads. He has won Champions League, European Championship in the last few years. He is a top player. I’m not saying he is the man for Arsenal week in week out forever but I think he could help towards the end of the season when things get nervous.”

Related topics:JorginhoArsenalChelseaEngland