The real reason Arsenal want Thomas Partey contract decision ‘in the coming days’

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Arsenal are in a battle to keep Thomas Partey in North London this summer.

Partey is talking to other clubs after it was revealed that the Gunners are still in negotiations with the midfielder over an extension to his stay at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal offered Partey a new contract back in May however, the Ghanaian international is yet to agree terms with the club and Barcelona are among the names circling.

Martin Zubimendi’s imminent arrival means Arsenal do have quality in central midfield but Jorginho’s departure highlights that Mikel Arteta will want a decision from Partey to avoid an unwanted headache.

READ MORE: How much Arsenal will now pay for Martin Zubimendi as David Ornstein dispels Real Madrid transfer links

Arsenal want Thomas Partey contract decision ‘in the coming days’

Arsenal will not want Partey’s contract situation to become a saga that rumbles on all summer and according to the Athletic, are hopeful of a solution ‘in the coming days’.

The report claims: “There should be some clarity on the future of Thomas Partey in the coming days. The Ghana midfielder’s contract expires this summer and there is still no agreement over a renewal.”

Partey wants his ‘importance’ maintained within Arteta’s side even with the arrival of Zubimendi and that is seen as a huge factor within negotiations.

However, Arsenal are keen on building a squad that has depth and is capable of competing on all four trophy fronts next season.

The club will also be keen for a swift decision as it is likely they will need to enter the market to replace Partey should he decide to leave.

Arsenal have bigger priorities than a Thomas Partey replacement

Part of the reason why Arsenal are pushing to extend Partey’s contract is the fact that there are other areas of the squad that are more in need of strengthening.

If Partey does stay, Arteta has four excellent options within central midfield and all can be flexible with their roles and positioning.

Supporters know that a striker and a winger are the main priorities this window and Andrea Berta is working on deals to bring the likes of Benjamin Sesko and Rodrygo to the club.

Should Partey depart, it would be no surprise to see Myles Lewis-Skelly used as another midfield option next season and the Gunners press ahead with their plans to sign another versatile defender instead.