Arsenal are quietly moving to secure Thomas Partey’s future at the club as his current contract nears its expiration. The 31-year-old Ghanaian midfielder’s deal is set to end at the conclusion of this season, making him eligible to leave as a free agent. For much of the season, Partey’s departure seemed inevitable, but a recent resurgence in his form under Mikel Arteta has led to a shift in the club’s stance regarding his future.
Partey has long been a key figure in Arsenal’s midfield when fit, and despite ongoing injury concerns over the past two seasons, his recent return to regular action has proven his value to Arteta’s side. His role in the team, particularly since his recovery from a groin surgery in late 2023, has been significant. With his injuries seemingly under control, Partey has been able to regain his consistency and fitness, becoming a vital part of Arsenal’s plans once again.
While Arteta has remained tight-lipped about the specifics of Partey’s future, he hinted that the club is eager to keep the player. “The intention is very clear. I’ll leave that to Andrea and the club to take a step forward,” said Arteta, signaling that talks are progressing behind the scenes.
Arsenal’s new sporting director, Andrea Berta, who worked closely with Partey during his time at Atletico Madrid, is understood to be playing a key role in the negotiations. Berta, who personally oversaw Partey’s £45 million move to the Emirates in 2020, knows the player’s qualities and is keen on maintaining him in the squad.
Talks about a potential contract renewal are centered around a two-year deal or, alternatively, a one-year extension with the option for a further 12 months. Partey has expressed a willingness to remain at Arsenal, where he is settled with his family in London. However, both the club and the player are aware that if terms cannot be agreed upon, alternative options will need to be explored.
One factor that could impact negotiations is the expected arrival of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. If Zubimendi becomes a regular starter in Arsenal’s midfield, it could lead the club to reassess their need for Partey, especially if the Ghanaian is to take on a more rotational role. Partey is currently on a lucrative £200,000-per-week contract, and should Arsenal prioritize other areas of the team or opt for a younger, more consistent midfielder, they may hesitate to offer him a new deal at such a high wage.
Despite the club’s internal deliberations, interest in Partey from other clubs has been growing. Atletico Madrid, his former club, is reportedly interested in a reunion, while Barcelona has been monitoring his situation. Additionally, clubs in Saudi Arabia have emerged as potential suitors, with some even prepared to offer lucrative terms for the midfielder on a free transfer.
Arsenal’s decision will ultimately hinge on Partey’s willingness to accept a new contract that suits both parties. If an agreement can’t be reached, the club may look to sell the player, recouping a fee for him before his contract expires. With interest from several top clubs, it’s clear that Partey’s future is far from certain, and his next move could have a significant impact on his career trajectory.
