Arsenal have set their stance on a transfer for Everton ace Amadou Onana amid the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) launching new talks with Thomas Partey.
The PIF is keen to convince Partey to join the Pro League this summer as one of its next big-name signings. Arsenal also face a decision over the 31-year-old’s future in north London as Partey enters the final year of his contract on July 1. He has never signed an extension in N5.
Arsenal gave Partey a five-year contract upon triggering his release clause at Atletico Madrid in October 2020. But his frequent injuries and inconsistent form have kept the Gunners from agreeing new terms. Now, Arsenal could even replace Partey with Everton midfielder Onana.
Arsenal see Everton star Amadou Onana as Thomas Partey’s ideal replacement
That is according to the Mirror, which reports Arsenal view Onana as the ‘ideal’ replacement for Partey. The Gunners appreciate what the Belgian has offered for Everton since moving to Goodison Park in August 2022. It is also probable that the Emirates Stadium club sell Partey.
Arsenal would lean toward offloading Partey this summer given his contractual situation and issues since arriving in N5. Onana has also stood out to the capital club after helping Everton avoid relegation from the Premier League during each of his two terms on Merseyside so far.
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Everton are also in a difficult place concerning the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR). So, Arsenal may land their ideal replacement for Partey on the cheap if they bid for Onana before June 30. The end of this month also marks the end of the accounting year.
Signing Amadou Onana would clear Arsenal to sell PIF target Thomas Partey
Reports by The Sun have also noted that Arsenal are readying a swoop for Onana as Everton slashed their asking price to £30m. The Toffees fear a third successive term where the club breaches PSR after receiving two points deductions. But the unofficial ‘deadline day’ is soon.
Taking advantage of Everton’s financial problems and signing Onana can also clear Arsenal to sell Partey. According to TEAMtalk, the Ghanaian’s contract lapsing in 2025 has tempted the PIF to approach Partey and discuss his transfer as it strives to usurp interest from Turkey.
Partey has proven that he can be the perfect defensive shield at Emirates Stadium when he stays fit. But his form has never stayed consistent since arriving from Atletico Madrid due to frequent injuries. The midfielder has only started 87 of his 115 matches from a possible 128.