As revealed by the Arsenal Fanatic News on the Patreon, Arsenal are set to restart contract extension talks with defensive midfielder Thomas Partey.
The Ghanian star’s contract is set to end this summer, and several sources earlier revealed that his age and fitness could be one factor that the club was thinking twice before extending. But tables have turned since Jorginho sealed his move to Flamengo.
The former Chelsea star agreed to join the Brazilian outfit for free next summer. Since the Gunners can’t afford to lose another experienced personality, they are now planning to keep Partey at the Emirates Stadium.
The 33-year-old struggled to stay fit during his early days at Arsenal and often missed a long stretch of games. Fans were frustrated to see him spend a lot more time in the treatment room than on the field. But the tables have turned this season, with the African honcho showing remarkable consistency.
They gaslighted me and even went to the extent of betting with me about Thomas Partey playing 20 matches. So far Thomas has made 35 appearances this season. The most among all the Arsenal players. The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. May your apologies be… pic.twitter.com/mLESY1okAF
— Gunner Hustinx (@Hustinxwilliam) February 4, 2025
He is still one of the best players at Arsenal, and Arteta can bank on him whenever there is a tricky fixture around the corner. Partey’s ability to control the midfield and break opposition attacks makes him unstoppable in this team.
He was shifted back to his natural CDM position in the most recent 5-1 victory against Manchester City after featuring as a right-back against Girona in the UEFA Champions League. On his day, the veteran star is one of the best anchors in the Premier League.
He didn’t put a foot wrong in the entire game and helped his team beat City’s intense press and his second-half rocket gave them the lead and suddenly shifted the momentum towards the home side.
It was just another game this season where Partey’s contributions played a vital role. Players who stay fit and perform well are ideal candidates for a renewed contract.
Age is a concern for Partey
The No. 5 has met all conditions to extend his stay with the Gunners. Although his age is a talking point, the midfielder can continue playing at a higher level for at least two more years. This Arsenal side is hunting for titles, and keeping hold of an object, experienced star like Partey is a logical move.
Yaya Toure on Thomas Partey:
“I think now every weekend when Arsenal have to play, I have to be honest, I would go just to watch him.
“He’s just unbelievable,” Toure told @talkSPORT 🇬🇭 #afc pic.twitter.com/ztRDRngdYv
— 🐙 (@parteysznx) February 4, 2025
The current situation indicates that the club isn’t in favour of selling him, as it might create a void that will be difficult to fill.
Arsenal have already earmarked Martin Zubimendi as a replacement for Jorginho. It is a sign that they are planning for the future while also protecting their top leaders in the squad.
