Thomas Partey could leave Arsenal this summer with contract talks not advancing

Thomas Partey could leave Arsenal as a free agent this summer with negotiations over a new contract not advancing, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The transfer guru revealed on Thursday morning that there is no agreement on fresh terms and that means there are now concrete chances for the Ghanaian to part ways with the Gunners in the upcoming days.

With talks reported to have been intensifying just a matter of weeks ago, it looked as if Partey would have been remaining in north London, but rumours of discussions over a move to Barcelona and this new bombshell make it seem a departure is the likeliest outcome.

Thomas Partey could leave Arsenal this summer with contract talks not advancing

It would simply be a huge blow to lose Partey on a free transfer with it now meaning Arsenal will likely have to sign a new midfielder alongside Martin Zubimendi while not recuperating any of the £45m they splashed on him five years ago.

Partey had just enjoyed arguably his best and most consistent season in north London, scoring four goals and providing three assists in 52 appearances across all competitions. He had struggled with injuries throughout previous campaigns.

While his fitness and occasional mistakes were frustrating for the Gunners, he will be missed at the base of the midfield. He was often a reliable force in both attack and defence, capable of playing backline-splitting passes while also being a tough opponent to get past.

Zubimendi may now be viewed as the Ghanaian's replacement with Mikel Arteta presumably wanting to bring in another player to fill the void left by Jorginho. The Spaniard would be capable of fulfilling the role, but will need backup in what is going to be yet another long season.

A tactical shakeup could prevent the need to sign another midfielder, but Declan Rice should really be continuing in the number eight position he has excelled in since joining Arsenal so that means another incoming is likely to be required.

Losing Partey would be a tremendous blow for the Gunners as it not only leaves a gap in the team, but also disrupts their plans in the transfer market. Nothing is certain yet, but it does look as if he will be leaving N5 this summer and someone will have to come in to replace him. While a striker should definitely remain the priority, the need for another midfielder will mean a change to Arteta and Andrea Berta's plans during the window.

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