The 30-year-old defensive midfielder is currently in his fourth season with Arsenal, having joined from Atletico Madrid for £45 million. Despite playing a pivotal role in last season’s title challenge and contributing five goals in 104 games for the Gunners, recent reports from Tutto Mercato suggest that Partey is seeking a fresh start in January and has communicated his intentions to the club.
During the summer transfer window, Partey was the subject of speculation about a potential move away from north London and was reportedly pursued by Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli. Despite Mikel Arteta emphasizing Partey’s significance to the team, the midfielder, who has struggled for consistent game time this season, is now reportedly aware of interest from Italian giants Juventus.
Juventus is said to be in search of a defensive midfielder in the winter transfer window and has initiated preparations to secure Partey’s services. While Arsenal now has alternatives in midfield, such as £105 million signing Declan Rice, Jorginho, and Mohamed Elneny, Partey is reportedly awaiting the emergence of other options alongside Juventus before making a decision. The midfielder is said to prefer a move to another Premier League side, and a return to a Spanish club is also of interest.
Despite his contract with Arsenal running until 2025, Partey’s potential departure may limit the club’s maneuverability if a suitable bid is received. Additionally, Partey’s injury history, with more than 50 missed matches due to nine separate setbacks in the last three years, is a concern. Recent reports suggest that his current injury might keep him sidelined for the rest of the year, and with his participation in the African Cup of Nations in January, he may not be back in an Arsenal shirt for some time.
Although Arteta has expressed confidence in Partey’s commitment to stay, recent concerns about the midfielder’s fitness raise uncertainties. Arteta has acknowledged the importance of having Partey fit and available, considering his impact on the team when healthy. However, with ongoing injury issues, the prospect of Partey being unavailable until February raises questions about his future at Arsenal. Despite the promising potential of a Partey-Rice-Odegaard midfield trio, it seems that Partey’s Emirates career could be at a crossroads.
