Arsenal star Thomas Partey could be set for a surprise departure from the Emirates Stadium this summer.
The Ghanaian has been an integral player for Mikel Arteta since joining in 2020 for a fee in the region of £45 million. Partey has ascended to become of the best defensive midfielders in Europe on his day, too, as Arsenal have returned to the Champions League and challenged for the Premier League title this season.
But in recent weeks, Partey’s form has wavered. The No.5 was at fault for a goal against West Ham United and particularly careless in possession in the crunch clash against Manchester City, finding himself dropped by manager Mikel Arteta for games against Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion in the run-in.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reacts during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion at Emirates Stadium on May 14, 2023 in London, England.
Now, the Mirror says that Partey is wanted by two unnamed Italian clubs – and that Arsenal may look to cash in on the midfielder, who is approaching 30.
The Gunners are already set to lose Granit Xhaka from their midfield this summer, with the Swiss national captain on the verge of a transfer to Bayer Leverkusen, meaning that two of Arsenal’s first-choice midfield three might leave this summer. Only captain Martin Odegaard would remain.
Partey was one of Arteta’s first signings after director Raul Sanlehhi left in 2020. The midfield warrior was purchased on the deadline day of that year’s summer window and has played just 80 times across three seasons, with injuries hampering his momentum at key points of the campaign.
