Atletico Madrid are interested in re-signing Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey on a free transfer this summer, according to Spanish outlet Marca (page 14).
The Ghana international has had an injury-plagued career with the Gunners, but he has been a key player for the London giants when fit and firing.
Partey recently produced a fantastic performance against Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final as Arsenal won 3-0.
He completed 94 percent of his passes versus Los Blancos. The midfielder, signed for £45m by Arsenal from Atletico in 2020, completed 100 percent of his long balls.
The 31-year-old also made six recoveries, with four duels won. It was one of his best displays of the campaign, but his future at Arsenal remains uncertain.
As per Marca, Gunners sporting director Andrea Berta has his sights on landing Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, which would open the door for Partey’s departure.
Partey, whose contract expires at the end of June, is ‘on the horizon’ for Atletico and has been identified as a top target for the ‘number five’ role at the Spanish club.
Since Partey’s exit in 2020, Diego Simeone’s side have tried Geoffrey Kondogbia, Lucas Torreira, Hector Herrera, and Arthur Vermeeren in the position without much success.
The Madrid giants are now keen on reuniting with their former star on a free transfer.
Arsenal must keep Partey irrespective of Zubimendi pursuit
Zubimendi has been a long-term target for the Gunners. The club are in a strong position to secure his services when the transfer window reopens this summer.
However, that does not mean the club should part ways with Partey and Jorginho. Jorginho’s current deal expires on June 30 too, and he could join Flamengo on a free transfer.
Zubimendi is undoubtedly a good holding midfielder, but he may need time to adapt to the higher intensity and physicality of the Premier League next term.
In our view, Arsenal must hand a new contract to Partey. A one-year deal with an option for another 12 months on his current salary would be a good decision.
The Ghanaian ace has suffered numerous injuries during his five-year spell at Arsenal, but seems to have turned the corner this campaign to produce his best football.
Arsenal should open talks with Partey over a renewal. Losing him on a free transfer to Atletico would be a big mistake, based on his splendid form this campaign.
Stats from Sofascore.com
