Arsenal midfielder set for summer exit amid European interest | OneFootball

Arsenal Midfield Overhaul: Partey on His Way Out as Arteta Plans for the Future

Partey’s Future Hangs in the Balance

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal project is entering a pivotal phase. With the club pushing to re-establish themselves as Premier League title contenders, evolution is inevitable. That means hard decisions—especially in midfield, where experience has its limits.

According to Caught Offside, Thomas Partey is attracting serious interest from Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Juventus. With his contract expiring at the end of the season, Arsenal are yet to open discussions over a renewal. That silence speaks volumes.

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Time for Change in Midfield

Partey’s spell in North London has been a mix of highs and frustrations. Signed from Atlético Madrid in 2020, he was meant to be the dominant force in Arsenal’s midfield. When fit, his presence has been undeniable, but persistent injuries and inconsistent availability have hampered his impact.

Photo: IMAGO

At 31, Partey remains a high-level operator, but Arsenal’s shift towards a younger, more athletic core suggests his departure is imminent. With Jorginho also likely to leave, Arteta is eyeing a completely revamped midfield.

Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad has been identified as a key target, with Atlético Madrid’s Pablo Barrios also on Arsenal’s radar. Both fit the mould of the dynamic, progressive midfielders that Arteta prefers.

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European Giants Circle

Partey’s wages—£200k per week—are a major factor in Arsenal’s reluctance to renew his deal. While Saudi clubs have expressed interest, the Ghanaian international wants to remain in Europe. That gives Barcelona an advantage, as Partey would welcome a return to La Liga.

With PSG and Juventus also in the mix, the battle for his signature will be intense. For Arsenal, though, this is not just about outgoings—it’s about building a midfield that can drive them to the next level.

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On one hand, Partey is a brilliant midfielder when fit, bringing composure, tactical intelligence, and experience to the side. But football is ruthless, and Arsenal are thinking ahead. If the club genuinely wants to challenge for the Premier League and Champions League, fresh legs in midfield are essential.

Zubimendi would be an excellent addition—press-resistant, disciplined, and comfortable in possession. The idea of him anchoring midfield, allowing Declan Rice to play with more freedom, is exciting. Pablo Barrios, meanwhile, represents a younger, more aggressive alternative, someone who could grow into the role under Arteta’s guidance.

Photo IMAGO

The prospect of Jorginho and Partey leaving in the same window might seem risky, but Arsenal have already transitioned away from relying on them. This is a club looking forward, not back. If the right signings are made, Arsenal fans should see this as progress rather than a setback.