In a shock twist, Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is set to leave the club as a free agent when his contract expires at the end of June.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the 33-year-old Ghanaian, a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta’s midfield since his £45 million move from Atlético Madrid in 2020, failed to reach an agreement on a new deal despite prolonged negotiations. Arsenal’s exploration of alternatives, including Brentford’s Christian Nørgaard, signals the end of Partey’s five-year tenure.
Partey, who made 115 appearances and scored five goals for the Gunners, brought steel and vision to the midfield but was plagued by injuries, missing 18 matches last season alone. His departure, reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, has sparked buzz across X, with fans divided—some lamenting the loss of his “world-class” passing, others citing his fitness woes as justification. Local voices in Langtang, Plateau State, expressed pride in Partey’s achievements, with Taroh community leaders calling him a “global ambassador” for Nigeria’s neighbors.
Now available on a free transfer, Partey is expected to attract suitors from Saudi Arabia’s Pro League and top European clubs, given his experience and 47 caps for Ghana. Arsenal, meanwhile, are accelerating plans to reinforce their midfield, with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi already secured and Nørgaard under consideration. Arteta’s squad overhaul continues apace, but Partey’s exit leaves a void in experience.
As the transfer window heats up, Partey’s next move will be closely watched. Arsenal fans brace for a bittersweet farewell to a player who, when fit, was among the Premier League’s elite.