Arsenal now have a clear plan in mind for the future of Thomas Partey, whilst Mikel Arteta is plotting a number of additions.
Thomas Partey is now facing an uncertain future at Arsenal.
The Ghanaian star has been beset with persistent and recurrent injury issues in recent seasons, severely impacting his game time for the Gunners. Last season, the midfielder made just 14 Premier League appearances, of which only 9 came as starts.
Given the 30-year-old is currently earning £200,000-a-week at the Emirates Stadium, this situation is clearly unsustainable. What’s more, the former Atletico Madrid man is no longer the player he once was, and struggled to impress on a consistent basis when he came back into the team towards the end of last season.
The time has come for Arsenal to move on from Partey, and Mikel Arteta seems to have made up his mind on this. The Gunners are now keen to offload the player in this summer transfer window. The wages the club will save by selling Partey, plus any transfer fee that he might bring in, can then be reinvested by the club into new arrivals.
Arsenal plan to sell Thomas Partey amid summer spending spree
According to The Times, Arsenal now “hope to sell” Partey to a club in Saudi Arabia. Clubs in the Gulf State could certainly afford his wages, and the player’s fame and reputation may appeal as the Saudi Pro League is seeking to raise its profile.
Arteta is also keen to sign: “A left back, potentially a centre back, a central midfielder and an attacking player.”
Given his fitness record, Arsenal may struggle to find a buyer for Partey. If a suitor from Saudi Arabia does come forward though, then Arteta would be wise to let the 49-cap Ghana international go.
Mikel Arteta must make support for Declan Rice a priority
If Partey does depart for North London this summer, then strengthening the Gunners’ midfield contingent must become the absolute priority for Arteta. With Mohamed Elneny having already left the club and Jorginho in the latter stages of his career, Declan Rice desperately needs support in that part of the pitch.
There are a number of players the Spanish coach may consider to take up this vacancy. Arsenal could even seek to hijack Bayern Munich’s move for Joao Palhinha. In any case, it is vital that Partey is adequately replaced. Whilst two defenders and an attacker may also be on the agenda, a central midfielder must be at the top of the club’s summer shopping list.