There has been a significant update in Arsenal’s pursuit of retaining Thomas Partey.
The Ghanaian midfielder is set to leave the Emirates in the summer at the expiration of his contract.
Signed in 2020 from Atletico Madrid, Partey has become a crucial part of Arsenal’s midfield, prompting Mikel Arteta to attempt to keep the 31-year-old beyond 2024/25.
Arsenal have discussed a new contract with Partey, and now, a significant update on the player’s stance has emerged.
Thomas Partey wants to sign a new contract at Arsenal
It was initially understood that Partey would leave Arsenal once his contract had expired, but the midfielder’s performances this season has turned heads.
Several clubs are interested in the former La Liga star, including Barcelona, who were said to be Partey’s preference if he were to leave the Emirates.
Now, it looks as though the Gunners’ push to get their number five to stay has paid off, as an update from The Standard claims.
The report confirmed that Arsenal have held talks with Partey’s camp in recent weeks, uncovering the player’s stance on negotiations.
The Standard understands that Partey would ‘ideally like’ his situation to be resolved before the last game of the season, but insisted that the Ghanaian’s preference is to stay in N5.
Partey ‘hopes’ an agreement can be struck to keep him at Arsenal, in a deal that would see him snub a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia, as well as turning down tempting offers from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Earlier this year, it was reported that Partey is happy in north London and is settled at Arsenal, leading up to the latest news of his desire to put pen to paper on a new deal.
Confusion over what Partey’s role could be next season
It’s a boost for Arsenal, given how impactful the defensive midfielder has been this term; however, it remains uncertain exactly what the future holds for the star.
Arsenal are closing in on signing Martin Zubimendi, a positional equal to Partey, who will see competition increase in the squad.
While Partey’s contract situation isn’t set to impact the Zubimendi transfer, the Ghana international’s role in the starting XI will surely undergo change in 2025/26.
Arteta will commence his midfield rebuild by acquiring Zubimendi, who will surely be a starter alongside Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.
As a result, Partey’s future involvement remains unclear, but regardless, staying at the club is a boost for the Gunners’ depth.
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