Sources indicate Thomas Partey is leaning towards signing a new deal at Arsenal rather than moving to Saudi Arabia or Spain. The Ghanaian midfielder, whose contract is due to expire this summer, was widely expected to leave. However, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta recently suggested the club is open to extending the contract of the player, who will be 32 in June.
Beyond Spain and Saudi Arabia, Partey has also drawn attention from Juventus and Barcelona. His former club, Atletico Madrid, whom he left for Arsenal in 2020, is also reportedly interested. Since joining Arsenal, Partey has been plagued by injuries, but his recent improved form is thought to have initiated new discussions regarding his future at the Emirates.
While Partey reportedly prefers staying, securing a new contract is not guaranteed. Arsenal is reportedly proposing terms that would keep him at the club for at least the next season, possibly with an option for an additional year. Partey hasn`t ruled out this structure, but the financial terms are crucial. He is currently among Arsenal`s highest-paid players, earning over $250,000 weekly. Sources suggest Arsenal aims to negotiate a lower base salary for any new deal.
Partey`s role in the first team might also change. According to sources, Arsenal is optimistic about signing Real Sociedad`s Martin Zubimendi, having worked on securing the Spanish international throughout the current season. Although Real Madrid has also been linked with Zubimendi, Arsenal remains hopeful of completing the transfer.
When questioned recently about updates on Partey`s contract extension, Arteta responded, “There is progress with all the players. I`ll leave that to [sporting director] Andrea [Berta] and the club to decide and to talk about.”
While the club potentially adds Zubimendi and considers keeping Partey, another defensive midfielder, Jorginho, is anticipated to depart when his contract ends. The Italian midfielder has been linked with Saudi clubs but reportedly prefers a move to Brazil, with Flamengo often mentioned as a destination. A rib injury may limit the 33-year-old`s remaining season appearances, though he has been highly valued at Arsenal for his contributions on and off the field.
