By As an Arsenal fan, I’ve been glued to the latest updates about the club’s squad plans, especially with the 2024-25 Premier League season heating up. Yesterday’s news from transfer guru Fabrizio Romano dropped a bombshell that’s got me thinking: Arsenal are in talks with Thomas Partey’s camp to extend his contract. With Mikel Arteta reportedly keen to keep the Ghanaian midfielder, this could be a game-changer for the Gunners’ ambitions—especially as we chase Liverpool in the title race.
Let’s rewind a bit. Partey’s journey at Arsenal hasn’t always been smooth. Since joining from Atlético Madrid in 2020, he’s shown flashes of brilliance with his commanding presence in midfield, breaking up play, and delivering pinpoint passes that unlock defenses. I still remember his standout performance in the North London Derby a couple of seasons ago—pure class.
But injuries have plagued his time in North London, often leaving fans like me frustrated as we watched him sidelined during crucial matches. With his contract set to expire in the summer of 2025, I’ll admit I thought his days at the Emirates were numbered. Rumors swirled about potential moves elsewhere, and I braced myself for another key player walking away.
But Arteta, it seems, has other ideas. The news that Arsenal are now engaging with Partey’s representatives feels like a statement of intent. Mikel clearly sees something in the 31-year-old that aligns with his vision for the team. Maybe it’s Partey’s recent form—when he’s fit, he’s arguably the best defensive midfielder we’ve got. I’ve watched him anchor the midfield in big games this season, giving players like Declan Rice the freedom to push forward. The balance he brings is undeniable, and I can’t help but think Arteta wants to build on that as we head into the business end of the campaign.
What makes this even more intriguing is the other piece of the puzzle: Jorginho’s likely exit. The Italian midfielder, who’s been a steady hand since joining from Chelsea in 2023, seems to be on his way out, with reports linking him to a move back to Brazil. I’ve always admired Jorginho’s composure on the ball, but at 33, his role has been more about depth than dynamism.
If he does leave, it opens up a spot in the squad—and possibly the wage bill—for Partey to stay. It’s a bold call, but I think it’s the right one. Partey’s physicality and experience could be crucial as Arsenal look to overhaul their midfield for the 2025-26 season.
As a fan, I’m also thinking about the bigger picture. Arsenal are in a tight race with Liverpool, who’ve been setting the pace in the Premier League. We’re not far behind, and with the right squad tweaks, I believe we can challenge for the title next season. Partey staying could be a signal that Arteta is doubling down on a proven core rather than starting from scratch.
Sure, there are risks—his injury history isn’t going away, and at 31, he’s not getting any younger. But when he’s on the pitch, he’s a difference-maker. I’d rather take the gamble on a player who knows the system than splash out on an unproven replacement.
Of course, nothing’s set in stone yet. The talks are ongoing, and Partey reportedly has other options on the table. I can’t help but wonder where those offers are coming from—maybe a Saudi club or a return to Spain? But I’m hopeful he’ll choose to stay. There’s unfinished business at Arsenal, and I’d love to see him lift a trophy with us, maybe even the Champions League. Imagine that: Partey, one of the few African players to win the UCL, doing it in Arsenal red. It gives me chills just thinking about it.
For now, I’m keeping my fingers crossed. Arteta’s faith in Partey is a reminder of why I trust this manager so much—he sees the potential in players even when the fans are doubting. If Arsenal can secure Partey’s future and pair him with the right signings this summer, our midfield could be unstoppable. What do you think, fellow Gooners? Are you as excited as I am about this news, or are you worried about the risks? Let’s hear your thoughts.
