A year ago
Thomas Partey is getting closer to leaving Arsenal as a trio of Saudi teams consider a trade.
Arsenal are anticipated to make changes to their midfield this summer, with two of last season's players potentially being replaced before Declan Rice arrives to North London.
Three Saudi teams have expressed interest in Thomas Partey, and Arsenal may be willing to listen to offers.
Since joining North London from Atletico Madrid in 2020, the Ghanaian midfielder has been a regular (when fit). Now, though, he may be allowed to leave as Mikel Arteta tries to revamp his midfield.
Arsenal is still interested in Declan Rice and Kai Havertz, among others, as they look to reclaim the Premier League championship in 2023-24. They are braced for the departure of long-serving midfielder Granit Xhaka, and Partey might be next.
According to CBS, Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Khaleej are all interested in Partey. The former, where former Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo plays, has also been linked with a move for Partey's former Atletico Madrid teammate Saul Niguez.
Meanwhile, The Athletic says that Arsenal and Partey's agents have been discussing a possible departure strategy for the 30-year-old. But whether he favors a Saudi swap is a different story.
Partey's contract with Arsenal runs until 2025. However, with no movement reported on a new contract, the Premier League club is willing to hear bids.
Arsenal's number five has made 99 appearances for the club, including 40 in all competitions when the Gunners finished second in the league last season, scoring three of his five club career goals. Last season, his goal against Tottenham in the North London Derby was nominated for the Gunners' goal of the season award.
When it comes to Rice, Arsenal will need to make a new offer after West Ham rejected their previous one. The last proposal was around £75 million, with the possibility of increasing to £90 million with add-ons, but the Hammers are thought to desire nine figures for their captain.
Rice believes a transfer to the Emirates Stadium is still the most likely option, despite interest from Manchester City. The England midfielder isn't the only player on Arsenal's radar.
Moises Caicedo, a January target, might be priced out of a transfer, with Chelsea leading the chase for the Ecuadorian international. However, Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia has been suggested in connection with the Gunners.
After excelling for the relegated south coast club last season, the youngster is in hot demand. Former club Manchester City has a buy-back option for the Belgian, but it does not take effect until 2024, giving Arsenal an advantage over their competitors.
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