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Exclusives
What Arsenal actually plan to do with Thomas Partey this summer
- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
Amid talk of Arsenal signing a new midfielder this summer, it’s almost been forgotten that Thomas Partey is still available to Mikel Arteta.
Perhaps that is a reflection on Partey’s injury history at Arsenal, a player who was only able to start nine of the club’s 38 Premier League fixtures last season.
The season before, Partey started 28 games, but was missing for the crucial run-in, when Arsenal succumbed to Manchester City for the first time.
There’s no doubt that when the midfielder is fit and match sharp then he’s one of the best in his position in the league, but that’s not been a common occurrence.
And at 31-years-old, many Arsenal fans believe it’s time to move Partey on, who now only has one-year remaining on his contract.
That being said, TBR Football understands that Arsenal remain confident of selling Partey this summer.
Despite Arteta still being very fond of Partey as a player, his age and injury record mentioned means that Arsenal are looking to move him on.
Arsenal still intend to sign a new midfielder even if Thomas Partey stays
However, in a summer in which Albert Sambi Lokonga has already left, Arsenal are wary of being caught short of options.
In that regard, the Gunners may also lose Emile Smith Rowe, reducing Arteta’s options in the middle further.
But either way, TBR understands that Arsenal expect Partey to leave and are confident that he will go.
However, if Partey doesn’t find a new club then Arsenal won’t be devastated, happy to include the Ghanaian in their plans for another year.
READ MORE: Jakub Kiwior could be the key to Arsenal signing ‘world-class’ midfielder
But importantly, Partey staying wouldn’t stop Arsenal moving for another midfield target.
Arsenal are reportedly in contact to sign Mikel Merino – who made a huge impression at the Euros.
But in a similar vein to Arsenal’s interest in Nico Williams – who was also in Germany with Spain, Barcelona could provide fierce competition.
Arsenal fans will likely be content with the club’s position on Partey this summer, meaning if he does remain he’ll be something of a luxury – rather than a crucial member of the eleven who they can’t cope without.
All that being said, Arsenal could be set to smash their record sale this summer with a different midfield departure.