Mikel Arteta faces an urgent concern as Arsenal’s negotiations with star midfielder Thomas Partey over a contract extension have hit a deadlock.
With Partey’s current deal set to expire at the end of the season, the 31-year-old will be given the freedom to hold talks with clubs abroad in January, raising the possibility of losing him on a free transfer next summer.
Arsenal risk losing Thomas Partey on a free
according to The Mirrordiscussions between Arsenal and Partey have reached an impasse, with little progress towards a deal.
This development comes despite Mikel Arteta hinting last month that the club could offer him a new contract in the future after being impressed by his recent surge in form, labeling him as “great player” for Arsenal.
Speaking in November, he said:
“He’s only 31 and he’s in a really good place and yes, we’ll have discussions. The only thing we needed was for Thomas to be at the level we wanted. He’s working hard to do what he’s doing at the moment. I think he’s playing very well in different positions with different demands and he’s coping in a fantastic way. He’s a great player for us.”
Partey has been a key player for Arteta’s side this season. He has made 21 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring 2 and assisting 1. Although primarily a defensive midfielder, he has also shown his versatility, playing at right-back and central midfield when required.
The Ghana international joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in October 2020 for a club record fee of £45m.
Tasked with adding composure and steel to Arsenal’s midfield, Partey has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with injuries and inconsistency in previous seasons. However, his current form suggests he is playing some of his best football for the Gunners.
Losing Partey on a free transfer would be a major setback for Arteta, especially given the player’s recent resurgence. His ability to dictate play, break down opposition attacks and adapt to various tactical demands has been crucial to Arsenal’s success this season.
The club’s hierarchy will need to act quickly to resolve the contract dispute as Partey’s availability on a free transfer is likely to attract interest from Europe’s top clubs.
