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Thomas Frank has already told Arsenal exactly why Christian Norgaard is the perfect Thomas Partey replacement

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Arsenal have made a move for Brentford midfielder Christian Norgaard.

Arsenal’s bid for Norgaard indicates that the club are preparing for the departure of Thomas Partey after failing to agree terms on a new contract.

Brentford are thought to want more than Andrea Berta’s £9.3m offer but Norgaard is keen on a move to the Emirates Stadium, which could help move the deal along.

Arsenal’s North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur recently appointed Norgaard’s former manager Thomas Frank and he has told Mikel Arteta exactly why the Danish midfielder is an excellent replacement for Partey.

READ MORE: All you need to know about Arsenal transfer target Christian Norgaard

Thomas Frank instructs Christian Norgaard during Brighton & Hove Albion FC v Brentford FC in the Premier League clash.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images

Thomas Frank’s verdict on Arsenal target Christian Norgaard

Norgaard signed a new contract with Brentford back in March, keeping him at the West London club until June 2027.

Upon signing the contract, former Bees boss Frank was full of praise for his captain and stated his belief that Norgaard had become ‘one of the best’ defensive midfielders in the Premier League.

Speaking to Brentford’s official website, Frank stated: “Christian has been an integral part of the fantastic journey we have been on these past six years. He is our club captain and one of our most important players.

Christian Norgaard challenges Declan Rice during Arsenal FC v Brentford FC in the Premier League clash.
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

“His ability to sense danger and make interceptions is at an extraordinarily high level, as is his ability to play forward on the first or second touch. And he has picked up his goal threat this season!

“The first time I coached Christian, he was a no.10; now he is one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League.”

Christian Norgaard signing is a smart move from Arsenal

With Partey’s likely Arsenal departure and Jorginho having already made a move to Flamengo, the Gunners were suddenly very short of central midfield options.

Martin Zubimendi is joining Arsenal to take up the position in front of the back four but Norgaard will also add valuable experience to the side.

Arsenal are looking to compete on all four trophy fronts next campaign and Norgaard’s ability to intercept danger and play through the lines will be a valuable asset.

Whether his role is alongside Zubimendi or from the bench, at just over £9m, the Gunners could be about to gain one of the bargains of the summer transfer window.