Arsenal face the prospect of losing midfielder Thomas Partey on a free transfer this summer as his contract nears expiry, with two major Spanish clubs expressing strong interest in signing the Ghanaian star. The 31-year-old’s current deal at the Emirates is set to expire at the end of June, and despite Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s public desire to keep him, no new contract agreement has yet been finalized.
Reports indicate that Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, both aiming to strengthen their midfield options without incurring heavy transfer fees, have initiated talks with Partey’s representatives. Barcelona, in particular, view the former Atletico player as a valuable and affordable asset, especially as they continue to manage their squad under Financial Fair Play constraints. Barcelona’s manager sees Partey as a cost-effective reinforcement who can bring experience and solidity to their midfield.
Thomas Partey joined Arsenal in 2020 for a transfer fee of £45 million and has played a crucial role for the club since then. However, his tenure at the Emirates has been hampered by several injury setbacks, which have limited his availability at times. Nonetheless, when fit, Partey remains a commanding presence in midfield, combining physicality, tactical intelligence, and technical ability to anchor the team’s play.
Despite his challenges, Partey was an integral part of Arsenal’s squad during the previous season, making 35 league appearances and helping the club mount a serious title challenge. His performances on the pitch have made him a key player, and his experience adds significant value to the team.
As negotiations continue, Partey’s expectations for a new contract have become a sticking point. He is reportedly seeking a deal that not only reflects his value on the field but also offers a significant financial upgrade. Given his age and stage in his career, Partey is looking for what could be his last major contract, aiming to secure terms that reward his contributions and stature within the squad.
At the same time, Partey has shown a strong attachment to London, having built a life there with his family and developed a close working relationship with Arteta. He prefers to remain with Arsenal, valuing the stability and connections he has established in the city. However, the financial aspect is proving crucial, with Partey unwilling to accept a pay cut or less favorable terms, which has contributed to the delay in finalizing a renewal.
Interest in Partey is not limited to Spain. Reports have also surfaced linking him to clubs in Saudi Arabia, who are increasingly investing in experienced players. Despite this, Barcelona have reportedly made the first concrete approach, highlighting their ambition to secure Partey without paying a transfer fee.
The potential departure of Partey would open the door for Arsenal to move swiftly in the transfer market to bolster their midfield. Arsenal are reportedly prepared to activate the £51 million release clause of Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi. Personal terms with Zubimendi have reportedly been agreed upon, and the club is ready to complete the transfer should Partey leave.
This impending exit signals a significant moment for Arsenal’s midfield composition, as the club seeks to balance experience with fresh talent. Losing Partey on a free transfer would be a blow given his quality and influence in the squad, but the potential signing of Zubimendi could represent a strategic move to rejuvenate the midfield while maintaining competitive standards.
For now, Arsenal await Partey’s decision, hoping to retain their influential midfielder while managing the financial realities of the modern game. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the Ghanaian stays in London or embarks on a new chapter back in Spain with one of the two giants showing interest.
