Thomas Partey set to leave Arsenal this summer when his contract expires | OneFootball

Arsenal have decided to part ways with midfielder Thomas Partey after failing to agree on terms over a new deal for the Ghanaian international.

Per David Ornstein,  Partey will leave Arsenal when his contract expires on Monday, with the club set to confirm his exit early next week.

Partey avoided serious injuries this term after struggling in previous seasons.

He played a massive role for the Gunners in the engine room as they finished second in the Premier League and reached the UEFA Champions League semi-final.

The 32-year-old was a mainstay in the first team, putting in 2.63 tackles per game, playing 5.41 progressive passes and making 1.19 progressive carries per 90.

The Arsenal star made 35 Premier League appearances, winning possession 3.9 times per game. He bagged four goals and created three big chances.

Partey is one of the best midfielders in the world for his ability to pinch possession, screen the defence, and recycle the ball purposefully.

He will be a massive miss in the Arsenal centre.

Arsenal have signed Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard to plug the hole left behind upon his departure, but coach Mikel Arteta would have loved to have him in the team.

The Spanish tactician hailed Partey after his stellar performance as Arsenal beat Sporting CP in November.

Arteta said (via Arsenal.com): “This year he has been so consistent as well because he always has a role, that’s a big thing, he’s a massive player for us.”

While they will miss Partey, they have already prepared for his departure, meaning the club can surely start pushing for the attacking reinforcement their roster is crying out for.

Arsenal need creative wingers and a lethal striker, looking to end their 21-year wait for a Premier League title next season.

Instead, they have focused on signing back-up midfielders and goalkeepers.

Surely, Arsenal face their need for attacking signings squarely and get those deals over the line.