Arsenal Chelsea
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey appears to be edging closer to the exit door at the Emirates Stadium, with mounting reports suggesting that the Ghanaian international could leave the club this summer as contract renewal talks stall.
The 32-year-old, who joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 for £45 million, is entering the final year of his current deal, which expires on June 30, 2025. Despite being a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad over the past four seasons, uncertainty around his future has intensified in recent weeks.
Negotiations between Arsenal and Partey’s representatives over a possible contract extension have reportedly failed to yield an agreement. While the club’s official retained list confirmed that talks were ongoing, fresh updates suggest that discussions have hit a standstill, prompting Partey to consider alternative options.
READ MORE: Agent of top Arsenal target shuts down transfer talks amid speculation
Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu added further weight to the speculation, bluntly stating: “Thomas Partey to leave Arsenal.”
Partey enjoyed a strong 2024/25 campaign, overcoming previous injury woes to feature in 35 Premier League matches and playing a crucial role in Arsenal’s runs to the semi-finals of both the UEFA Champions League and the Carabao Cup. In total, he has made 167 appearances and scored nine goals for the Gunners.
Thomas Partey
Thomas Partey (Image credit: Getty Images)
Manager Mikel Arteta has repeatedly highlighted Partey’s importance to the team. “He’s a really important player for us,” the Spaniard said last month, making clear his desire to keep the midfielder at the club.
However, Arsenal’s aggressive pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi — with a £51 million deal reportedly close — has cast doubt on Partey’s future. The Spanish international is widely viewed as a long-term replacement, and his expected arrival could significantly reduce Partey’s minutes on the pitch.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Speaking recently to 3Sports, Partey gave a glimpse into the factors influencing his next move: “The first thing is where you are happy and where you feel at home… We all have a family that needs money, that’s always in our mind. I’m an Arsenal fan, I can’t decide anything and just have to leave it to my agent and the club.”
🚨BREAKING: Thomas Partey is set to leave Arsenal.
[@yagosabuncuoglu] pic.twitter.com/dwqvojYIOr
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) June 17, 2025
Partey is attracting widespread interest across Europe, with Barcelona, Juventus, and former club Atletico Madrid all reportedly monitoring his situation. Clubs in the Saudi Pro League have also expressed interest, offering substantial financial incentives that could sway the Ghanaian midfielder.
Despite the interest, sources suggest Partey would prefer to remain in North London, but only if a suitable agreement can be reached.
His potential departure would come at a time of transition for Arsenal’s midfield. Jorginho has already completed a move to Flamengo, while Oleksandr Zinchenko is also expected to leave this summer. Losing Partey would further deplete Arteta’s options and may force the club to accelerate their search for reinforcements ahead of the 2025/26 season.
NEXT ARTICLE: Ollie Watkins makes position clear on potential summer move to Arsenal