Arsenal are reportedly in talks with Thomas Partey’s representatives about a one year extension to his contract.
Despite rumours that the Gunners were looking to offload the Ghana international this summer, Partey looks likely to stay at the Emirates Stadium. The 31-year-old’s contract with Arsenal runs out in June 2025 and the midfielder has received multiple offers from clubs in Spain, Italy and Saudi Arabia. However, Partey is said to be in no hurry and Arsenal are happy to hand him a one year extension to protect his value as they look to ship him off down the road, as revealed by Arsenal Fanatics News on their Pateron.
From Madrid to North London
Partey came up through the youth ranks of Atletico Madrid, enjoying two successive loan spells at Real Mallorca and Almeria before breaking into Atletico’s first team. Initially used as a squad player, Partey gradually transitioned into an integral member of the first team.
On 5 October 2020, Arsenal announced his arrival at the Emirates, having triggered his £45 million release clause with Atletico Madrid. Partey started his career at North London well, being recognized by Mikel Arteta as one of his key players.
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While the 31-year-old has always been consistent with his performances, injuries have marred his career with the Gunners. He made 41 starts in the Premier League during his first two seasons at the club, a low number for an integral member of the squad. While he enjoyed a good run of games in the 2022-23 season, a hamstring injury sustained in November 2023 kept him on the sidelines for a significant duration. As a result, the Ghanaian has made just nine league starts last season.
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Partey was utilised often by Arteta this pre-season, making two starts and coming off the bench a further two times. He has also made a strong start to the Premier League season, starting both games and scoring against Aston Villa in their 2-0 victory in Birmingham. While he is likely to be replaced in the starting 11 by the incoming Mikel Merino, he will be a strong squad player.
Arsenal looking to replace Thomas Partey with Adam Wharton
When the midfielder does eventually leave the club, Arsenal are looking to replace the Ghanaian with Adam Wharton. The 20-year-old plays for Crystal Palace and has impressed in the midfield for the South London side. His positive displays led to an international call up by Gareth Southgate for England’s Euro 2024 side.
Wharton is comfortable on the ball and has shown good defensive capabilities, making him a good option to replace Partey in a couple of years time.
