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Arsenal sources share what Thomas Partey has been doing that could now prompt the Gunners into big U-turn
TBR Football can exclusively confirm what Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been doing at the club that could prompt the club into a U-turn.
Thomas Partey’s Arsenal contract expires at the end of the season and, for months, it looked as though they were willing to let him go.
Arsenal signed Partey for around £45million in 2020 and he has made 161 appearances for the Gunners, registering nine goals and seven assists.
However, Partey turns 32 in June and, with Arsenal having a lot on their plate transfer-wise, offering him a bumper new deal appeared unlikely.
That said, Arsenal sources have now shared what the Ghana international has been doing that has gone down well among club insiders.
Arsenal impressed by Thomas Partey fitness and professionalism
TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey has confirmed that the main thing for the Gunners is that Partey has proved his fitness.
This season, the 31-year-old is on course to start the most games he has ever done since arriving in England.
“The real issue previously was his fitness levels,” Bailey told TBR Football.
“Mikel Arteta loves the player, the fact he can cover other areas, he is popular in the dressing room and he isn’t one of the highest paid players at the club.”
TBR Football sources also confirm Partey and his camp are talking to other football clubs.
However, they are being up front with Arsenal, and have kept them informed throughout.
“That is another aspect that Arsenal like, his professionalism during this process,” said Bailey.
“I am told the club really think he has matured into his role as a leader in the dressing room.”
Where Thomas Partey could go if he leaves Arsenal
As previously revealed, Partey has held talks with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in recent weeks.
Partey also has interest from Italy in the shape of Inter Milan, Juventus and Napoli, and the possibility of a move to Serie A can’t be discounted entirely.
The Saudi Pro League also remains an option for Partey – who Arteta views as a ‘massive player’ – if he does leave Arsenal.
Nevertheless, he’s certainly doing well to impress the Gunners hierarchy, which could give him yet another option come the summer.