Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is about to depart the membership as a free agent after contract renewal talks collapsed simply days earlier than his present deal expires. The Ghanaian worldwide, who joined the Gunners from Atletico Madrid for £42.5 million in 2020, will depart after 5 years on the Emirates Stadium.
Negotiations had been ongoing in latest weeks, with Partey expressing a need to stay in London. Nonetheless, the 32-year-old and his representatives have been reportedly pushing for a pay rise past his present £200,000-per-week wage — a requirement Arsenal have been unwilling to fulfill because of his damage historical past and age.
A last resolution has now been made: Partey will depart Arsenal when his contract runs out on Monday. An official membership assertion confirming his exit is predicted shortly.
The midfielder made 167 appearances for Arsenal, scoring 9 targets and offering seven assists. Whereas he performed an important position throughout his time in North London, the one trophy he lifted with the membership was the 2023 Neighborhood Defend.
Regardless of exhibiting glimpses of high kind — particularly throughout the 2024–25 season — accidents and inconsistency typically hampered his impression.
Arsenal have already begun restructuring their midfield. Actual Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi is about to hitch following the completion of his switch, whereas a £15 million deal has been struck for Brentford’s Christian Norgaard. With each incoming midfielders anticipated to be introduced quickly, Mikel Arteta seems prepared to maneuver ahead with out Partey.
The Ghanaian’s departure follows that of Jorginho, who has joined Flamengo on a free switch. Partey, in the meantime, will take time to contemplate his choices. Barcelona and several other Saudi Professional League golf equipment have proven curiosity in providing him a profitable last contract.
Whereas some followers could view his departure as a loss after a robust last season, Arsenal’s stance displays a transparent long-term technique: put money into youthful, extra sturdy expertise. Partey’s error-prone moments — such because the yellow card that dominated him out of a Champions League semi-final — coupled together with his health report, doubtless contributed to the membership’s resolution.
In the end, Arsenal appear assured they’re well-prepared for the post-Partey period with two strong midfield additions already lined up.
