Arsenal and Thomas Partey are heading towards a potential parting of ways this summer, with talks over a contract renewal having reached an **impasse**, according to reports. The Ghanaian midfielder’s current deal has **expired**, and while Arsenal are open to keeping him on, the club is standing firm on its salary offer — one that falls short of Partey’s expectations.
This standoff has significantly increased the chances of **Partey leaving the Emirates**, bringing an end to his four-year spell in North London. The 31-year-old had hoped to secure a modest wage increase in any new contract, but Arsenal have made it clear that they are only willing to extend on **his current terms** — a proposal that Partey and his representatives have so far resisted.
### **Arsenal’s Stance: Control the Wage Structure**
Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta are overseeing a tightly managed wage structure at Arsenal, part of a broader strategy to maintain financial flexibility and squad balance. With younger players like Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka on long-term deals, Arsenal are wary of offering inflated wages to older players, even if they remain valuable contributors.
Partey’s recent injury record is also understood to be a factor. While the midfielder remains a high-level performer when fit, his availability has been inconsistent over the past two seasons, limiting his impact during key stretches of the campaign. This has led to internal discussions about moving forward with younger, more durable options.
From Partey’s perspective, the request for a wage increase is not just about money — it’s about recognition. The former Atlético Madrid man believes he has shown commitment during challenging periods and wants to be rewarded with improved terms, particularly as this could be the final major contract of his career.
Sources suggest that Partey is not completely opposed to staying, but unless Arsenal soften their stance, he is **increasingly likely to explore offers elsewhere**, with clubs in Italy, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia reportedly monitoring his situation.
### **Midfield Transition Already Underway**
Arsenal’s midfield is already in transition. With **Martin Zubimendi** arriving from Real Sociedad and **Jorginho** departing, there is a clear shift toward a new generation. Arteta appears to be rebalancing his midfield to ensure greater consistency, control, and fitness throughout a demanding season.
The club has also been linked with other midfielders who could serve as depth or rotation options behind Declan Rice — further suggesting that they are planning for life without Partey.
### **Conclusion: A Summer Departure Looks Likely**
Unless one party changes its stance in the coming days, it now appears likely that **Thomas Partey will leave Arsenal this summer**. His time at the Emirates has had its highs and lows, but he has been an important figure in Arteta’s rebuild.
Should he depart, Arsenal will continue reshaping their midfield for the future — while Partey embarks on a new challenge, potentially in a league where his wage demands can be more easily met.