Thomas Partey is currently playing for his future at Arsenal.
As things stand, Thomas Partey is set to become a free agent at the end of this season.
Mikel Arteta has a big decision to make when it comes to Partey’s future at Arsenal.
The 31-year-old has been a key figure for the Gunners so far this season. Partey has started the first seven Premier League matches of a new campaign for the first time in his Arsenal career.
Up to this point, the Ghanaian’s time in North London has been plagued by injuries. However, for now at least, he looks to have put those problems behind him.
Partey has withdrawn from international duty this week due to illness, but is fully expected to be ready to return to the field by the time Arsenal are back in action.
The former Atletico Madrid man will certainly be hoping for a big season, and he needs one if he is to remind everyone of his quality. Arsenal fans criticised Partey at the end of last season, as his form was rusty towards the end of another injury-hit campaign.
Arsenal making Thomas Partey contract decision
Arteta still has faith in Partey though, and is very much open to the notion of extending his stay at the Emirates Stadium.
According to journalist Graeme Bailey, speaking exclusively to Arsenal Insider: “They’re very, very happy with him… The way they see it, he brings a lot of stability to the team when he is in there. They like him and they know they can trust him.”
However, it not yet a done deal that the Gunners will offer the 51-cap Ghana international fresh terms.
Arteta still wants more evidence that the player has put his injury issues in the past before committing to a future with him at the club.
As Bailey added: “Partey is starting to prove his fitness now, more so… If he carries on like this, he’s going to get his contract extended.”
Should Arsenal give Partey a new contract?
Offering Partey a new deal would be a huge risk given his fitness record, and not one worth taking with him at this stage of his career.
With Declan Rice and Mikel Merino ready to make the midfield their own, and academy starlet Myles Lewis-Skelly coming through the ranks, this summer would be an ideal time to get Partey’s wages off the books once and for all by allowing him to depart on a free transfer.
He may well be able to contribute this season, but Arsenal need to be planning for a future without his services.
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