Arsenal are in great danger of losing Thomas Partey for nothing this summer.
The 31-year-old Partey can talk to other clubs from January 1 because his current contract expires at the end of the season. Little progress has been made in discussions over a potential new deal, despite Partey re-emerging as a key player in the squad this season.
Ghanaian midfielder Partey has made a total of 21 appearances in all competitions and has been a key member of the midfield and has also played as a right back, with two goals and an assist. Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has insisted they will find “the right time” to hold discussions, while also praising his “consistency at the highest level”.
But so far there has been a deadlock over the contract, despite previous strong interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League. Arsenal were willing to do business with Partey two summers ago, but an acceptable offer never materialized and he has suffered fitness problems ever since.
After being a big part of Arsenal's title challenge in the 2022/23 season, Partey missed large parts of last season through injury as he was absent for months.
But Partey has returned strongly in performance this season and is in good physical condition as he remains unsure of his next career move. His consistency has impressed Arteta, but it remains to be seen if they can reach an agreement.
Partey joined from Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2020 for £45 million, signing a five-year contract that was never extended. He made 136 appearances for the Gunners, with seven goals and five assists.
Arsenal have gone through a series of extra-time spells with William Saliba, Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard all locked up. They have also signed Mikel Merino, who could be a long-term option in midfield, along with the likes of Declan Rice and Odegaard.
But clubs in Saudi Arabia and across Europe are now monitoring Partey's situation. Arsenal are said to be reluctant to let him go in January but risk losing him for free if they do not resolve the issue.
Meanwhile, Arsenal will hope Brazilian defender Gabriel can be fit to return against Everton on Saturday in what should be another must-win match for the Gunners and their faltering title bid.
Gabriel has missed Arsenal's last three games due to a hamstring injury but came close despite not being at risk against Monaco in the Champions League. But Riccardo Calafiori may have to wait longer for his return in what has been a stop-start season for the £42million Italian defender.
Comments