Mikel Arteta might have already decided Thomas Partey future with latest Arsenal transfer link

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Arsenal’s attention is slowly turning to the upcoming winter transfer window and Mikel Arteta has work to do.

It’s expected that the Gunners will be active in the January window given that squad depth has been an issue for Arsenal early on. 

First, Arsenal will identify an Edu Gaspar replacement following the Brazilian’s shock exit from his role as sporting director. 

As well as considering possible signings, Arteta’s mind will also be on who could leave the club in the near future. 

Thomas Partey’s Arsenal future is uncertain 

Several Gunners have their futures in doubt due to both squad competition and contract situations.

One of the players whose contract expires in the summer of 2025 is Thomas Partey, who is 31 years old and in the final year of his deal. 

While nothing has been done to keep the Ghanaian on board, there’s an understanding that Arsenal want to keep Partey, who has been in strong form.

Arteta loved Partey’s display against Sporting CP where the ex-LaLiga star was close to his best, performing as one of Arsenal’s brightest in the Champions League.

Partey’s defensive detail has been praised this season, which has kept summer signing Mikel Merino out of the favoured XI for the most part.

Performance-wise there’s little to critique the Ghana international on right now however, a new development could suggest that Arteta’s mind is already made up regarding his future.

Adam Wharton could be Partey’s replacement 

Arsenal are interested in Adam Wharton who only signed for Crystal Palace during the January transfer window of 2024.

The midfielder has proven his worth at Selhurst Park, becoming an England international for his early actions at Palace.

Now, Arteta has taken a liking to the 20-year-old who could be regarded as a possible replacement for Partey if rumours are to be believed. 

Declan Rice is a fan of Wharton and would be impressed if the Gunners signed the youngster who can play both the number six and eight roles in the engine room.

While on paper, Wharton isn’t a profile that matches Partey’s identically, the former Blackburn Rovers star would stock Arsenal’s options in central midfield, which could hint at Arteta’s plan for the future.

At present, Partey’s current deal expires in the summer, and there is work to be done if Arsenal are to offer him a new contract.