Arsenal are preparing for a pivotal summer in the transfer market. The club’s top priority is to sign a new striker after a season where finishing chances proved costly. Viktor Gyokeres, Sporting CP’s prolific Swedish forward, has emerged as the leading target. Arsenal have submitted a €75 million offer and agreed personal terms with Gyokeres, who scored 52 goals in 49 matches this season. The club faces competition from Chelsea, but Gyokeres prefers Arsenal due to their Champions League status. While the focus is on attack, the midfield situation is also under review. Thomas Partey, a key figure in Arsenal’s engine room, faces an uncertain future as his contract nears expiration.
Thomas Partey: Contract Talks and Uncertain Future
Partey’s current contract with Arsenal expires this summer, raising questions about his next move. The club is eager to retain him, and talks are ongoing for a new deal. Partey is open to either a revised two-year agreement or a one-year extension with an option for a further year. He enjoys life in London, and his family is settled, making a stay possible if the terms are right.
However, Arsenal are demanding a significant concession for any new contract. Partey will need to accept a pay cut to remain at the club. His age, injury history, and the club’s evolving midfield priorities influence this stance. Last season, Partey was limited to just 15 appearances due to injuries, but surgery at the end of 2023 appears to have resolved those issues.
Sporting Director’s Influence and Potential Replacements
Andrea Berta, Arsenal’s new sporting director, is central to the contract negotiations with Thomas Partey. Berta and Partey share a history from their time together at Atletico Madrid, and Berta’s arrival has brought a fresh perspective to the talks. Mikel Arteta has publicly stated his desire to keep Partey, but he is leaving the final decision to Berta and the club’s hierarchy.
Arsenal are also closing in on the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, a move that could impact Partey’s role in the squad. If Zubimendi arrives, Partey’s status as a regular starter may be under threat, making it less likely the club will match his current £200,000-per-week salary.
Interest from Europe and Saudi Arabia
If Thomas Partey does not agree to Arsenal’s terms, he will attract significant interest from other clubs. Barcelona are monitoring his situation closely, considering him as a replacement for Frenkie de Jong. Atletico Madrid, his former club, are also interested in bringing him back. Additionally, clubs in Saudi Arabia have made inquiries, offering lucrative deals if he becomes a free agent.
Thomas Partey Value to Arsenal and Fan Sentiment
Despite the uncertainty, Thomas Partey remains a vital player for Arsenal. He has made 45 appearances this season, ranking among the top performers in key metrics such as touches, passes, and possession recoveries. His return to the starting lineup for crucial matches, like the Champions League semi-final against PSG, was met with optimism from fans who recognize his influence in midfield.
Partey’s leadership and defensive skills have been crucial in stabilizing Arsenal’s midfield during challenging periods. His performances, especially in big games, underline his importance to Mikel Arteta’s system.
Transfer Dominoes: How Cristiano Ronaldo Could Influence Arsenal’s Plans
Cristiano Ronaldo’s potential move from Al Nassr could create a ripple effect in the transfer market. If Ronaldo leaves Saudi Arabia, clubs in the region may intensify their pursuit of European stars to fill the void. Thomas Partey is among the high-profile names linked with a switch to the Saudi Pro League. A lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia could tempt Partey, especially if Arsenal do not meet his contract demands.
This scenario would free up space and wages for Arsenal to pursue other targets, such as Viktor Gyokeres, and accelerate the club’s midfield rebuild. The outcome of Partey’s contract talks will, therefore, shape much of Arsenal’s summer business.
The Road Ahead: Arsenal’s Midfield Evolution
As Arsenal push to finalize their striker signing, the Thomas Partey contract situation remains unresolved. The club must decide whether to keep their experienced midfielder or move forward with new faces. Partey’s decision will influence not only the midfield setup but also the broader transfer strategy for the summer.
The next few weeks are critical. Arsenal fans and observers will watch closely as the club balances ambition, experience, and financial prudence in shaping the squad for the 2025-26 season. Thomas Partey’s future is at the heart of these plans, and his contract update is a key storyline as Arsenal aim to return to the top of English and European football.