Arsenal are facing the serious prospect of losing Thomas Partey for nothing in the summer, with the Ghanaian midfielder’s current contract set to expire at the end of the season.
Partey is eligible to speak with other clubs from January 1, yet talks over a potential new deal have stalled despite his resurgence as a key figure in Arsenal’s midfield this season.
The 31-year-old has made 21 appearances across all competitions, contributing two goals and an assist, and has also filled in at right-back.
Manager Mikel Arteta has praised Partey’s “consistency at the highest level” and insists that discussions will take place at the “right time.”
However, with little progress made on a contract renewal, Arsenal could risk losing the midfielder for free.
This situation follows previous interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League. Arsenal were open to selling Partey two summers ago but did not receive an acceptable offer.
Since then, Partey has battled injury issues, limiting his involvement in the 2023/24 season after being a key figure in the club’s title challenge the previous year.
This season, Partey has bounced back, showing strong performances and maintaining good physical condition.
While Arteta has been impressed by his consistency, the club’s ability to reach an agreement remains uncertain.
Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid for £45million in the summer of 2020 on a five-year deal, which has yet to be extended.
Over his time at the club, he has made 136 appearances, scoring seven goals and providing five assists.
Arsenal have already secured contract extensions for key players such as William Saliba, Bukayo Saka, and Martin Odegaard, and have bolstered their midfield with the addition of Mikel Merino, who could be a long-term option alongside Declan Rice and Odegaard.
Meanwhile, clubs from Saudi Arabia and across Europe are monitoring the situation closely.
Although Arsenal would prefer not to sell Partey in January, they risk losing him for free next summer if a resolution is not reached soon.
In other Arsenal news, the club is hopeful that Brazil defender Gabriel will be fit for Saturday’s crucial match against Everton.
Gabriel has missed Arsenal’s last three games due to a hamstring injury, but has been progressing and could return to action in the must-win fixture.
However, Riccardo Calafiori may have to wait longer for his return, with the £42million Italian defender struggling with a stop-start season.
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