Arteta says Arsenal intends to keep Thomas Partey

Photo Credit – Arsenal Media.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says his intention is clear in wanting to keep versatile midfielder Thomas Partey whose contract is ending.

The Ghanaian’s future with the Gunners has generated speculation with reports linking him with a return to Atletico Madrid and others suggesting that he has offers from clubs in the Gulf Region.

In a pre-match press conference ahead of the meeting with Ipswich Town on Sunday, Arteta gave a strong hint to renew the contract of the defensive midfielder who joined the North London club from Atletico Madrid in 2020.

“Yes, there’s progress with all the players. I’ll leave that to Andrea and the club to decide and to talk about. The intention is very clear. I’ll leave that to Andrea and the club to take a step forward,” he said.

The 32-year-old midfielder has returned to peak form to help the Gunners reach the UEFA Champions League semifinal after beating Real Madrid 3-0 and 2-1 at home and away in the quarterfinal legs.

However, the Black Stars man will miss the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Paris Saint-Germain after picking yellow cards.

Partey was on target last weekend when Arsenal drew one-all with Brentford FC, leaving leaders Liverpool, boasting a 10-point lead, on the brink of the title.