Arsenal Launch Bid for Premier League Captain as Thomas Partey Eyes Departure
With Thomas Partey moving closer to a departure, Arsenal have allegedly submitted their initial offer for Brentford's midfielder Christian Nørgaard to serve as his successor.
Arsenal announced in early June that contract extension discussions with Partey were underway before his deal expires on June 30. Nevertheless, it appears more probable that the seasoned midfielder will be permitted to depart following reports that negotiations have reached an impasse in recent weeks.
The Gunners were unexpectedly linked with Nørgaard interest earlier this month. It seems Arsenal have now progressed in talks by submitting a preliminary proposal, initially reported by Danish publication Bold. The Athletic valued this opening offer at £9.4 million ($12.8 million), and Brentford's response remains to be determined.
The Bees are renowned for their transfer expertise but face challenges this summer. Having already lost their primary goalkeeper and manager Thomas Frank, Manchester United are growing increasingly eager to acquire the club's star striker Bryan Mbeumo. The captain might now also be departing.
Nørgaard holds a contract running through 2027, but at 31 years old, Brentford likely won't be able to demand an enormous transfer fee for the defensive midfielder. A dependable presence securing the center of the field, the Denmark international's primary role involves disrupting opposing attacks. Notably, nearly one-fifth of his Premier League goals have come against Arsenal.
Described as a "late bloomer" by fellow Dane Thomas Frank, the former Brentford manager has consistently praised his defensive cornerstone. "I'm extremely satisfied that he's representing Brentford," Frank expressed in 2021, shortly after Nørgaard celebrated his Premier League debut with a goal in a memorable 2–0 triumph over Arsenal.
"I believe if you removed him and placed him at Liverpool, swapping the two players, Fabinho and him, I don't think you'd notice much distinction."
Whether exchanging Partey for Nørgaard would prove equally smooth remains uncertain.