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Thomas Partey plan amid talks of Saudi interest as Nicolas Pepe speaks out on ‘flood of criticism’ during his Arsenal career

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A round-up of the latest Arsenal news including the latest on Thomas Partey’s future, the pursuit of a winger and Nicolas Pepe’s revelations on his time in north London.

With training back underway ahead of the upcoming pre-season tour, there is talk of plenty of potential outgoings at the club.

It is looking increasingly likely that Edu might reap Arsenal’s highest ever transfer fee as Smith Rowe’s exit nears amid talks of another Fulham bid for the midfielder.

Patrick Vieira’s managerial career has suffered a setback as he has parted ways with French club Strasbourg

READ MORE: Every player linked to and from Arsenal in the summer 2024 transfer window

Thomas Partey’s Arsenal stance with Saudi clubs circling

Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

After another injury-ravaged season at Arsenal, it seemed that Thomas Partey’s exit would be straightforward at the end of the season – especially after Jorginho’s extension.

Arsenal Insider revealed that even though Mikel Arteta is open to selling Partey, the prospect of the 31-year-old staying could not be ruled out, and it has now emerged that this is his intention.

Speaking to Charles Watts’ on his YouTube channel, CBS journalist James Benge revealed that Partey’s intention is to stay at Arsenal for the remainder of his contract that ends next year, and contrary to previous reports, there have been no talks over a move to Saudi Arabia.

“From what I understand about Thomas Partey’s situation, he intends to stay for the final year of his contract,” Benge said.

“Everyone talks about Saudi Arabia – there’s been no conversations with PIF so far & no offers from any other Saudi clubs.”

Read more on the future of Thomas Partey at Arsenal here.

Nicolas Pepe slams ‘harassment’ he received at Arsenal

Former Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe divided opinion in his stint at Arsenal.after a £72m signing.

He excited many fans during his first Premier League start as a split striker against LIverpool, causing nightmares for Virgil van Dijk.

However, inconsistency was to blame for his departure after some great games under Unai Emery.

Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

The 29-year-old now plies his trade at Trabzonspor and he spoke of a surprise request Arsenal had if they were to let Pepe leave.

Speaking in an interview with L’Equipe, Pepe shed light on the criticism after his arrival, outlining that he did not choose his extortionate transfer fee.

“That’s what people say to themselves: ‘He had everything to succeed there but he didn’t, so he’s a failure.” After my years in Lille, it’s one, that’s for sure. But we must be able to be self-critical without expecting it from others. Above all, I have a feeling of revenge on myself,” he explained.

It was clear that his brother relaying what people were saying about him online hurt Pepe.

“It was almost harassment. I don’t look at social media a lot, but if my brother relayed “that was said about you”, unconsciously, it touched me. It also came from the media or certain people at the club,” he added..

Read more on what Nicolas Pepe said about his Arsenal stint here.

Arsenal given Pedro Neto and Raphinha choice

The Arsenal pursuit of a winger this summer is set to be an interesting one with many fans wanting a better back-up for Bukayo Saka than Reiss Nelson.

With Gabriel Martinelli’s ceiling unknown and Nelson being linked with a move to West Ham United, it looked like Nico Williams was going to be the main target, but Barcelona seem to be ahead in that race.

However, Barcelona could still play a role in the domino effect of Arsenal securing a new winger..

According to TeamTalk, the Spanish outfit have offered Raphinha to the Gunners. However, Arsenal have a preference for Wolves’ Pedro Neto, with the club having very recently held “talks” with the player’s agent.

While Raphinha’s age profile at 27 doesn’t fit the bill quite like 24-year-old Neto, he could still be a success were he to join. Neto’s injury record has concerned some fans,

Read more on Mikel Arteta’s pursuit of a new Arsenal winger here.