Arsenal could be making Rice progress as Arteta allows Partey to explore Saudi Arabia move
Arsenal could make progress in their pursuit of Declan Rice amid reports that Thomas Partey has been allowed to speak with clubs in Saudi Arabia.
A host of stars, including Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo, have moved money to the booming Saudi Pro League in recent months, and an Arsenal midfielder could be the next top star to move there.
According to 90min, the Gunners have allowed Partey to explore a move to a club in Saudi Arabia this summer.
Indeed, Partey, who was once described as "world-class" by former Arsenal player Kevin Campbell, played a key role in the Gunners' Premier League title race last season.
However, coach Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu Gaspar are expected to make significant changes to the squad. Arsenal's hierarchy will be disappointed with the Ghanaian's form at the end of the season when the club cedes the top spot to Manchester City.
And Arsenal has now given Partey the green light to evaluate offers from Arab clubs.
Advertisement
Quit Partey to make way for Rice?
According to the Telegraph, Arsenal are only willing to splurge to buy Partey if a suitable replacement is found.
In turn, reports that the club have allowed Partey to explore a move to Saudi Arabia may suggest that they are making progress in their pursuit of Rice. The Gunners' opening offer for Rice was rejected by West Ham as they face competition from three-time champions Manchester City.
Advertisement
However, Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg has claimed Arsenal are "very confident" in securing a deal for Rice and Chelsea's Kai Havertz, with the club in "advanced" talks with the two.
Granit Xhaka is another Arsenal midfielder set to leave, with the Switzerland international already linked with a move to Bayer Leverkusen for £13m.
Read More
1.Jurgen Klopp could unleash five academy stars in pre-season with Liverpool boss ready to test 'real talents'
blogpay
Total Comments: 0