Arsenal’s contract talks with Thomas Partey are not set to impact the future of a deal to sign Martin Zubimendi, Arsenal Insider understands.
It comes as Andrea Berta looks to make his mark this summer as the new sporting director at the Emirates Stadium.
He will be tasked with making some big moves, not least with Arsenal needing a striker and a winger, along with a backup goalkeeper.
Mikel Arteta’s midfield is another area of focus, with Jorginho’s expected exit as a free agent set to open up some space for another arrival.
On top of that, there is uncertainty surrounding Thomas Partey’s future, while a deal for Martin Zubimendi is also on the cards.
Thomas Partey’s deal won’t impact Martin Zubimendi’s transfer to Arsenal
Arsenal’s midfield could be set for something of a shake-up this summer, with some moves still to be determined.
Jorginho is set to leave as a free agent, with his contract expiring, but Thomas Partey’s dwindling contract situation leaves him in a difficult position.
Arsenal have opened talks with Partey over an extension to his deal, though it is uncertain whether he will sign.
A quick U-turn on the future of Partey has put some fear surrounding Arsenal’s move for Martin Zubimendi.
The midfielder has been courting interest from Real Madrid, as well as the Gunners, creating something of a transfer tug-of-war.
Arsenal’s talks for Partey won’t impact that of Zubimendi, though, transfer expert Graeme Bailey has told Arsenal Insider.
He said on the situation: “The deals are completely independent. I think Zubimendi is more the Jorginho replacement, as I would see it. I think that’s the easiest way to put it.
| Player | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thomas Partey | 47 | 4 | 3 |
| Martin Zubimendi | 43 | 2 | 2 |
“With Partey, he’s a completely different player with versatility in the squad. I think the big thing, as we’ve said, is the fitness factor. He’s on course to play well over 30 games this season, and he’s just been superb all season as well.
“They never had any doubts about him as a player, but the make-up of that deal is going to be key to Partey and what he wants. He does have other clubs talking to him, it’s not a done deal, and he does have a lot of interest out there. Is he ready for a new adventure? He’s settled in London, but it’s not a done deal with Partey.
“I would argue Zubimendi is virtually a done deal, more so than Partey. From Arsenal’s point of view, we can say for certain that Zubimendi will be an Arsenal player next season, but we can’t do that with Partey.”
It means Arsenal are preparing for a season with Zubimendi at the heart of their midfield, but it’s unclear if Partey will be his teammate or not.
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Thomas Partey and Martin Zubimendi offer more tactical versatility to Mikel Arteta
Should Arsenal manage to keep Partey and land Zubimendi in the same summer, then the midfield will be looking in fine shape.
With the versatility of Declan Rice and Mikel Merino as number eights, the attacking flair of Martin Odegaard and Ethan Nwaneri as the number tens, it’s the number six role that has needed some attention.
Partey’s return to fitness has been a boost for Arsenal this season, with his performances showing exactly why.
His ability to stop transitions and then play the simple passes to keep the team going has been crucial, while some matches at right-back have been in the mix too.
As for Zubimendi, his arrival will add a different tactical layer, offering that metronomic presence in the engine room.
There have been questions over his physicality, though that can be switched out for Partey’s ability in return.
With Arsenal facing many different tests over the course of a season and by fighting on all fronts, the need to have that flexibility within the team is crucial.
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