Thomas Partey ‘allowed to open January talks over Arsenal move’
Arsenal are not planning to hold contract talks with Thomas Partey in the coming weeks amid speculation over his future at the Emirates.
This is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the final decision about his contract will be made later in the season.
As things stand, Partey’s deal is set to expire in the summer of 2025, and he will be allowed to enter talks over a pre-contract move abroad from January.
However, the 31-year-old is keen to keep his options open and will wait for Arsenal to decide whether they want to extend his contract before committing to a deal elsewhere.
The midfielder has made 22 appearances across all competitions so far this season and remains an important part of Mikel Arteta’s squad.
HIs ability to play as a right-back in the absence of Ben White, while also providing cover in midfield, has been a valuable asset for the manager.
Despite this, there is a growing feeling that they can improve in his position and could enter the transfer market in search of a replacement as soon as January.
Arsenal to make Thomas Partey contract decision later this season
Football Insider revealed in September that Arsenal had already begun considering the long-term future of their midfield and would make a new signing if Partey didn’t extend his deal.
Brown, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after spending over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted that work has already begun behind the scenes amid growing uncertainty.
“From what I hear, they’re not planning to make an offer any time soon,” he told Football Insider.
“I think it might depend on whether they can find an alternative, because he’s been a valuable squad option for Arteta so far this season.
“They’ll already be looking at where they can go to replace him if he does leave the club.
“So if they do decide to open talks, it won’t be until later this season or even after the season ends.
“I wouldn’t expect it to be resolved in January because I expect he wants to keep his options open and see what Arsenal decide to do.“
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