BARCELONA are looking to repeat their Ilkay Gundogan transfer tactic to grab Arsenal midfielder Jorginho on a free, according to reports.

The Italian midfielder’s contract is set to expire next summer where he will be able to move to another club as a free agent.

Barcelona are plotting a move for Arsenal midfielder Jorginho on a free transfer

Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo report that the Catalan side are looking to use the free agency market as a way around the financial issues that have plagued them in recent years.

Ilkay Gundogan was signed by Barcelona ahead of Arsenal this summer on a free transfer after they made him a long-term objective.

As they search for a midfielder who can assist manage the speed of the game and preserve possession, the Catalan club is now interested in Jorginho.

With Jorginho’s contract expiring next summer, Barcelona will be able to approach the midfielder in January to sign a pre-contract at the club.

Arsenal’s signing of Declan Rice has seen Jorginho fall further down the pecking order at Arsenal, but the injury to Thomas Partey could see Arteta rely on the Italian more after the international break.

Jorginho had been linked with a move to Fenerbache in the closing days of the summer window but his agent, Joao Santos moved to quash the rumours.

He told Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli: “This year he stays at Arsenal, then we can’t know what will happen next season.

“For now he is focused on playing two very important competitions such as the Premier and Champions League with the Gunners. Italy is always in our hearts, never say never.

“If there is an Italian team that needs Jorginho and his characteristics we will see what will happen. A possible future for Juve? In modern football you can’t say he will be playing for one team or another.

“We can talk to all the teams looking for a player with his characteristics.”

If his playing time at Arsenal does not increase as a result of Thomas Partey’s injury, Jorginho will probably start seeking for a transfer.

Jorginho was not included in Luciano Spaletti’s first Italy squad since taking over as manager of the country last week.

Since his first call-up in 2016, Jorginho has been practically a constant for the national team, and he will be vying for a spot back in the group for the Euros the following year.