‘Thomas Partey to leave Arsenal’ – fans explode after journalist’s update
Arsenal fans reacted all but unanimously after a fresh update emerged on Thomas Partey’s future at the club.
Partey has been a consistent presence in Mikel Arteta’s midfield this season, but uncertainty still surrounds his long-term future at the Emirates.
His current contract is set to expire this summer, and although Arsenal have held talks with Partey over an extension, there has been no significant progress in negotiations.
Partey has had poor performances for Arsenal this season but has managed to stay fit for the majority of the campaign, featuring regularly and remaining a trusted option for Arteta.
However, despite his role in the squad, the latest update has cast fresh doubt on whether the Ghanaian international will commit to a new deal, further fuelling speculation about a potential summer exit.
Barcelona open talks with Thomas Partey over free transfer
Rahman Osman of The Sun revealed on 1 June that Barcelona have “opened talks” with Partey’s representatives over a free transfer for the 31-year-old this summer.
Partey, who joined Arsenal in 2020, has made 167 appearances for the club but is yet to agree a contract extension. With his current deal expiring soon, a return to La Liga could now be on the cards.
This season, Partey’s performances have been heavily criticised, with some describing them as “unforgivable” and the club may now look to upgrade in midfield as part of a wider rebuild.
However, with Jorginho set to leave Arsenal and join Flamengo on a free transfer, the Gunners risk leaving themselves short in midfield if Partey also departs.
| Club statistics | Thomas Partey |
| Appearances | 167 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Assists | 7 |
Arsenal closing in on Martin Zubimendi amid Thomas Partey exit talk
Amid the uncertainty over Partey and Jorginho’s futures, the Gunners already appear to have a contingency plan in place.
Football Insider reported that Arsenal are close to securing a deal for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, ahead of strong interest from Real Madrid and Liverpool.
The Spaniard is expected to slot straight into the starting XI as the club’s new holding midfielder, regardless of whether Partey stays. However, losing the Ghanaian on a free would still leave Arsenal with less depth going into the new season.
Contract talks remain at a standstill, but many fans have already voiced their desire to see Partey leave. One supporter wrote, “I’m begging for him to leave” while another added, “Let this be true… we need more offensive players, not [defensive midfielders].”