Arsenal are set to open contract negotiations with Italian midfielder Jorginho

Arsenal are set to open new contract negotiations with Italy international midfielder Jorginho after some impressive performances, according to PA Sport journalist Mark Mann-Bryans.

The 32-year-old was splendid as the Gunners ran out 4-1 winners over Newcastle United on Saturday, and he also put in an impressive performance in the 3-1 win over Liverpool early in February, which led manager Mikel Arteta to shower praise on him afterwards, calling him a ‘really intelligent player’.

Jorginho is out of contract at the end of this season, but talks are due to open soon, with a new one-year deal and an option of another one-year set to be included in the new contract.

The Italian joined Arsenal from Chelsea last January after they missed out on Moises Caicedo, and while he made 16 appearances last term, he has played 25 games across all competitions this term, establishing himself as a key player in recent games.

His experience has come in handy in the middle of the park and the Gunners are benefiting from his quality as they look to secure their first Premier League title since 2004.

Jorginho deserves a new deal without a doubt, and Arsenal have made the right decision by opting to extend his stay at Emirates Stadium beyond this summer.

With Thomas Partey constantly struggling with his fitness, keeping the Italian for one or two more seasons makes sense, and while a new midfielder could still be recruited when the transfer window reopens, the experience and quality Jorginho brings to the table remain valuable and will always come in handy.

Arsenal need quality squad depth in all positions to keep challenging effectively across all competitions, and having such a solid midfielder is a massive boost for their title and trophy aspirations.