Arsenal are at risk of losing midfield stalwart Thomas Partey on a free transfer in January, with contract renewal talks reportedly at a standstill.
Thomas Partey’s Future in Doubt as January Transfer Window Looms
The Ghanaian international, who joined the Gunners for £45 million from Atletico Madrid in 2020, has been a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta’s team but now finds his future at the Emirates in jeopardy.
Partey’s current deal expires in the summer of 2024, leaving Arsenal with only a narrow window to secure his future or risk seeing him sign a pre-contract agreement with an overseas club when the January transfer window opens.
Serie A giants and Saudi Pro League teams have previously shown interest in the 31-year-old, who would bring a wealth of experience and versatility to any squad.
The situation comes as a surprise, given Partey’s importance this season. Despite struggling with injuries last year, he has returned to form, featuring 21 times across all competitions.
With injuries to key players like Martin Ødegaard and Mikel Merino, Arteta has leaned heavily on Partey, even deploying him as a makeshift right-back on multiple occasions.
Speaking last month, Arteta hinted that Arsenal planned to address Partey’s contract situation soon.
“We will have the right time to discuss this situation. He’s showing consistency at the highest level again because of his ability and the way he feels physically,” Arteta said, emphasizing the midfielder’s crucial role in the squad.
However, according to The Daily Mail, there has been little progress in negotiations, and time is running out. Losing Partey would be a blow to Arsenal, who are aiming to maintain their competitiveness in domestic and European competitions.
Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith believes the Gunners should consider AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders as a potential replacement.
“Arteta might want some new legs in midfield,” Smith suggested, pointing to the need for fresh dynamism in the squad.
As Arsenal prepare to host Everton this weekend, fans will hope the club can resolve Partey’s contract impasse and avoid losing such a key figure on a free transfer.
