As Arsenal's third acquisition of the January transfer window, Jorginho has finally spoken out.
In an effort to break the team's 19-year league title drought, Mikel Arteta brought in Belgian forward Leandro Trossard from Brighton and the Polish center defender Jakub Kiwior from Serie A team Spezia earlier this month.
The Spanish tactician who had made it clear that he wanted to improve his midfield options, fell short of acquiring Moises Caicedo because Brighton would not let him go.
However, the north Londoners quickly turned their attention to other targets and, according to football.london, signed Jorginho from Chelsea for a fee that included £10 million in fixed payments and a further £2 million in add-ons. The club has the option to extend the 31-year-old's contract by another year until the summer of 2024.
The 31-year-old said that boss Arteta was crucial in getting him to decide to leave Stamford Bridge for the Emirates Stadium after the club unveiled him on Tuesday night. Jorginho said the following about Arteta to the club's official website:
"He had a big influence since I know he tried to acquire me previously a few times, but it didn't work out for other reasons, not because of my preferences. Naturally, he had a huge impact.
"I'm very excited about this new challenge, and to be honest, I just can't wait to be on the field! Everything took place very quickly. Although I was a little surprised and shocked, I seized the chance to accept this incredible challenge.
“It’s an important shirt. It’s an amazing club, a big one, and I’m really excited and happy to be here.”