Juventus reportedly interested in Jorginho: Transfer analysis

Jorginho is one of the names that has swirled around Juventus in recent transfer rumors, fueled by his agent’s comments about a potential return to Italy.

After five seasons in the Premier League with Chelsea and Arsenal, totaling 179 appearances, the Italian midfielder is approaching a crossroads.

This article examines whether Jorginho, a potential free transfer due to his expiring Arsenal contract (with an option for an additional year), would be the right fit for Juventus’ midfield needs.

Juventus’ Midfield Revamp

Juventus is actively seeking midfield reinforcements. This urgency stems from Paul Pogba’s four-year doping ban and Adrien Rabiot’s contract expiration, potentially leading to his departure.

So, who is Jorginho competing against for a starting spot?

The Contenders:

Adrien Rabiot: The current occupant of the role Jorginho covets. Rabiot has featured in more league games (26) compared to Jorginho’s 22 for Arsenal. W

hile Rabiot boasts a higher goal contribution (4 goals and 3 assists), Jorginho edges him out in passing accuracy (90% vs. 84.5%) and successful passes per 90 (67 vs. 33).

Rabiot compensates with a higher duel success rate (59% vs. 56%), but Jorginho makes more interceptions (1 vs. 0.85).

Analysis: Both players have strengths and weaknesses. Rabiot’s youth affords a longer-term solution, but his potential wage demands could be a burden.

Choosing Jorginho would prioritize passing accuracy and defensive contribution while absorbing a smaller financial impact.

Luis Alberto: Another name linked to Juventus, Luis Alberto has a superior goal contribution (10 goals/assists in 29 games) compared to Jorginho’s 2 assists.

However, Jorginho outshines him in passing (67 vs. 49 successful passes per 90) and defensive stats (1 interception vs. 0.25, 56% vs. 45% duel success rate).

Analysis: While Alberto’s attacking prowess is enticing, his lower passing volume and defensive presence raise concerns.

Additionally, luring him away from Lazio, his long-term club, might be challenging. In this scenario, Jorginho emerges as the more realistic option.

Jorginho’s Potential Role

Jorginho wouldn’t be a direct replacement for Pogba’s box-to-box dynamism. Instead, he’d likely slot into a deeper regista role, dictating the tempo with his exceptional passing and controlling the midfield with his interceptions.

Conclusion

Jorginho presents an interesting proposition for Juventus. He’s a proven regista with a winning mentality, honed during his time with Chelsea and Italy.

While younger options like Rabiot might offer more long-term potential, Jorginho’s experience, passing accuracy, and free transfer status make him a financially sound option.

Ultimately, the decision depends on Juventus’ tactical vision and midfield hierarchy needs.