Arsenal Nears Final Decision on Thomas Partey's Future as Contract Talks Intensify

Arsenal's midfield player Thomas Partey is anticipated to depart the club as a free agent following reports that negotiations for a contract extension have reached an impasse.

The 32-year-old's current deal expires at the end of this month, and when Arsenal released their retained/released player list, indicating which players would leave as free agents, the midfielder was placed in a distinct category with players whose contract discussions were still in progress.

After two weeks, there appears to have been no progress toward reaching an agreement.

ESPN reports that negotiations have reached "a standstill" and indications suggest that Partey will no longer be an Arsenal player by July 1. While Barcelona has been mentioned as a potential destination for the former Atlético Madrid player, the most significant interest appears to come from Turkish Süper Lig teams.

Galatasaray has already demonstrated their market intentions by acquiring Leroy Sané, whose Bayern Munich contract had expired. Fenerbahçe represents the nation's other prominent club.

Partey joined Arsenal in 2020 when the club activated a release clause in his Atlético contract valued at £45 million ($60.4 million). However, injuries have consistently limited his impact during his tenure in north London, featuring in fewer than 25 Premier League matches in 2020–21, 2021–22, and 2023–24.

The 2024–25 season, though now likely to be Partey's final campaign with Arsenal, was paradoxically his most successful. His adaptability as both a defensive midfielder and right-back enabled him to surpass 50 appearances in all competitions, while also netting four Premier League goals.

Arsenal have not completed any signings during this summer window, though they have secured key center-back Gabriel with a new extended contract. The primary focus for recruitment remains a striker, with ongoing speculation primarily centered around Viktor Gyökeres and Benjamin Šeško.