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What ‘one source’ is saying Thomas Partey needs to do to seal contract U-turn at Arsenal amid strong Barcelona interest

Srinivas Sadhanand

Thu 24 April 2025 14:45, UK

Thomas Partey’s future at Arsenal remains uncertain as the 2024/2025 season is about to draw to a close.

Partey was expected to leave Arsenal a month ago.

However, the situation seems to have changed and there is a possibility that Partey could renew his contract at Arsenal and remain at the Emirates Stadium.

A return to La Liga could be on the books for him as Barcelona are interested in signing Partey as Hansi Flick’s side view him as an alternative to Joshua Kimmich — who extended his contract until 2029.

Partey was expected to join Barcelona when the links first emerged as well.

• READ MORE: Alan Shearer thinks he knows who Mikel Arteta will pick to replace the suspended Thomas Partey for Arsenal vs PSG

Thomas Partey must take pay cut to earn new contract at Arsenal

Thomas Partey has proven his value to Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta in recent weeks as over both legs of the Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid, he was a class apart.

It seems like Andrea Berta’s arrival has helped Partey return to his best as earlier this campaign, it looked like he was on his last legs.

But now, “one source” has informed that for Partey to be handed a new contract at Arsenal, he would have to accept a pay cut.

However, even if the 31-year-old says yes to such an agreement, it remains to be seen whether he will continue his time at the Emirates Stadium.

What Partey does behind the scenes could lead to new Arsenal contract

Arsenal believe they have signed Martin Zubimendi and if that is indeed the case, Partey could become a mere squad player next season.

Whether the Odumanese Krobo-born man is fine with simply playing second fiddle to Zubimendi, with Declan Rice expected to virtually play at all times remains to be seen.

However, Partey is loved by Arsenal and there are three reasons why he could be handed a contract renewal.

• Mikel Arteta loves his versatility
• Partey is a leader in the dressing room
• The Arsenal star is known to be a model professional

As a result, it would come as no surprise if Partey’s spell at Arsenal continues.

For now, Mikel Arteta’s focus will be on preparing for their upcoming clash against Paris Saint-Germain.

Myles Lewis-Skelly could replace Partey against PSG and Arteta has to decide whether to simply give the 18-year-old a chance or trust Mikel Merino’s experience in midfield.