Why Thomas Partey is now ‘cautious’ about signing new Arsenal contract

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It’s still unclear whether Thomas Partey will leave Arsenal when his contract expires on June 30th.

After Arsenal announced their retained list, the Gunners’ desire to get Partey to sign a new deal was confirmed by the club. 

Mikel Arteta wants to keep Partey, but for the first time, Arsenal’s ploy to retain the Ghana international was uncovered. 

The midfielder played a significant part over the 2024/25 season; however, with the player soon to turn 32, fans are divided on the club’s decision to renew his contract.

• READ MORE: Winners and losers from a Thomas Partey contract extension at Arsenal including Myles Lewis-Skelly problem

Thomas Partey reluctant to sign a new deal at Arsenal 

Though the Gunners see Partey as part of their future, the capacity of such remains a mystery, given the incoming arrival of Martin Zubimendi. 

With a deal for Zubimendi all but closed, it’s unknown whether the Ghanaian will play a part as prominent as he did last season at the Emirates, which is proving to be a stumbling block over contract talks.

It’s understood that Partey wants to stay in London as he’s settled in N5, but according to a fresh update from the Mirror, the midfielder is keeping his options open. 

Despite making the 31-year-old a ‘competitive offer’ over a week ago, the situation remains ‘open’ due to an area of caution the player has.

The Mirror reports that Partey is ‘cautious’ that staying on at Arsenal could represent his last ‘big deal’, and as a result, those close to him want to see his ‘importance to the team’ reflected within the proposal.

Though all options are being considered, both parties want a solution wrapped up promptly, with the player set to be in Ghana over the upcoming days to host a scouting tournament for young local talent from his homeland.

There are pros and cons of Arsenal keeping Partey

It’s set to be a pivotal time for both Arsenal and Partey over the upcoming weeks, as anything could happen.

Partey has been linked to Barcelona, which could offer the Ghana international the chance to return to Spain, however, it’s clear that he’s wanted at Arsenal. 

Offering a player, who is one of Arsenal’s highest earners, a fresh deal in the latter stages of his career is dividing opinion, but what the 31-year-old offers to Arteta’s squad is clear, as seen last season. 

That being said, with Jorginho departing to Flamengo and Zubimendi set to arrive, now might be the time for Arteta to rebuild his midfield completely.

Regardless of whether a new deal represents Arsenal’s appreciation for Partey, the player’s position in the first team will surely change, leaving the door open regarding his next steps.