Arsenal willing to let first-team ace ‘leave’ to help pave the way for new signings

Arsenal could reportedly let Thomas Partey head out the exit door this summer. The 30-year-old enjoyed plenty of game time last season as the Gunners went toe-to-toe with Manchester City for top spot in the Premier League.

However, his time at the Emirates Stadium may well be coming to an end soon. The Telegraph claim he ‘may’ be allowed to ‘leave’ if a suitable replacement comes in now the new transfer window is open for business.

Arsenal have been heavily linked with a swoop for West Ham and England star Declan Rice as Mikel Arteta looks to freshen up his squad. Another current midfield option, Granit Xhaka, is expected to depart for Bundesliga outfit Bayern Leverkusen.

Partey, who is a Ghana international with 45 caps under his belt, joined the Gunners back in 2020. He has since made 99 appearances for the London club in all competitions and has chipped in with five goals. The player still has a couple of years left on his current contract but Arteta may fancy bringing in someone who is younger now.

Prior to his move to England, he was at Atletico Madrid and played 188 times for the La Liga giants, helping them win the league title and Europa League during his time under Diego Simeone. He also had loan spells away at Real Mallorca and Almeria as a youngster to gain experience.

Arsenal have an important few months ahead as they look to bolster their ranks. They are back in the Champions League and need to ensure that their squad has sufficient competition and depth in it in order to deal with the increased number of fixtures coming their way.

There is no doubt that Partey is still capable of performing at the top level but if he does leave, space and funds would be created. It will be interesting to see if he has any takers in the Premier League or whether he goes abroad.