Thomas Partey has been urged to knock back the prospect of joining Arsenal for regular Champions League football at Atletico Madrid.
Partey has emerged as Mikel Arteta’s prime objective for the summer transfer window, as the Arsenal boss hopes to overhaul a squad that finished eighth in the Premier League last term.
After capturing Willian’s services on a Bosman transfer, the Spanish manager is keen to close the deal for the 27-year-old anchor-man to bolster his midfield options.
Arteta sees Partey as a final piece for midfield jigsaw and is ready to make the utmost efforts to strike an agreement with both the player and his current employers.
Atletico Madrid have so far been adamant the Ghana international will not be allowed to go unless his £45million release clause is met, which has been a stumbling block the Gunners have yet to overcome.
Partey, who has established himself as Diego Simeone’s favorite midfielder, started 76% of Atletico’s La Liga matches in 2019/20.
A tenacious box-to-box midfielder, the Krobo Odumase native is a composed passer and threat from long range but is equally well-versed in the dirty side of the football.
Tireless presser and tough-tackler, Partey provides additional cover to his backline, which is the type of player Arteta is desperate to have at his ranks next season.
However, Ghana coach CK Akonnor is eager to see his compatriot stay put at the Wanda Metropolitano and enjoy the privilege of playing in the Champions League.
“Honestly, I wouldn’t want him to move to Arsenal because, with Atletico, he will always play Champions League football. His position is guaranteed, and he will always play,” he told Daily Mirror.
“With Arsenal, I’m not too sure. Arsenal fans will kill me [for saying he should not join them]. I hope that and I’m sure money issues will come in, but I hope that whatever he asks for, Atletico will be able to pay.”
Arsenal are working around the clock to raise funds to finance Partey’s arrival, with several first-team stars already put up for sale.
In addition to Matteo Guendouzi, who seems to be on the verge of joining Villarreal, the Gunners are also trying to offload Mesut Ozil.
The club’s top earner has become a fringe player but remains determined to see out his lucrative contract in London.
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