Arsenal’s squad underwent a significant overhaul in the summer – Edu executed his plan to replace players on the periphery of things with high-calibre alternatives.
Raheem Sterling effectively replaced Reiss Nelson for a season at Arsenal, and Mikel Merino became Emile Smith Rowe’s permanent alternative.
That’s not to say that the players Arsenal sold won’t be missed, but the Gunners made some difficult decisions and will soon reap the rewards.
Of course, there were a few stones left unturned at the Emirates Stadium, and Mikel Arteta didn’t end up signing a new striker.
Arsenal wanted Benjamin Sesko, but that deal died early in the summer.
But besides a striker, it also seems as if Arteta would have benefitted from a new number six.
Thomas Partey has begun negotiations to leave Arsenal
Merino has presumably come in as an eight, meaning that Thomas Partey will be Arsenal’s go-to man in the pivot for much of the season.
That being said, Arsenal’s pressing need to find a new six will only be hastentend following reports that Partey is set to leave N5 at the end of the season.
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According to TEAMtalk, Partey is almost certain to leave Arsenal at the end of the current campaign – a player who Granit Xhaka said he was still in regular contact with.
Edu and his team don’t intend to offer Partey a new deal meaning he will leave the club on a free transfer in 2025.
As a result, Turkish sides Galatasaray and Fenerbahce are already showing interest signing Partey next year.
In addition, Saudi Public Investment Fund’s chief representatives have been talking to Partey’s team since June, hoping to sign a pre-contract in January.
Of course, if that news is true, then Arsenal will have a substantial amount of time to find an upgrade – with Martin Zubimendi said to be in the club’s sights once again.
Jorginho’s future is still uncertain at the Emirates
Of course, without considering Declan Rice in his old role, Arsenal’s alternative option in the pivot is Jorginho.
The 32-year-old Italian also has a contract that expires at the end of the season, meaning there could be a significant change of guard next summer.
Arsenal are still leaning on Jorginho’s experience ahead of facing Atalanta in the Champions League, and perhaps he will still sign a new contract with the club.
But next summer does seem like the opportune time for Partey to leave Arsenal – regardless of what he achieves this season.
Arsenal can definitely find a more consistent presence in the middle, and it will certainly be interesting to see who Arteta identifies as the Ghanaian’s successor.
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