Fabrizio Romano is playing down reports suggesting that Thomas Partey could leave Premier League challengers Arsenal in the January transfer window despite his lack of game time under Mikel Arteta.
Yes, it is important to point out that the Ghana international’s game time has been restricted this season by a niggling ground injury. But, even when fit, Thomas Partey has found a place in the Arsenal XI hard to come by.
According to 90Min, Partey was far from pleased to be overlooked by Arteta for that 2-2 London derby draw with Chelsea last month.
Reports linking the £45 million signing from Atletico Madrid with a move to Italy in the New Year are not going away, meanwhile, Tuttomercatoweb claiming that Partey has informed Arsenal of his desire to leave.
As far as Romano is concerned, however, Arteta will take some convincing before he lets one of his most experienced players depart in the middle of the campaign.
Thomas Partey linked with Arsenal exit
“I’m still told Mikel Arteta considers Thomas an important player,” Romano explains in his Caught Offside column. “Despite recent reports from Italy that the Ghana international could look to leave.”
There are also question marks over the legitimacy of Juventus’ interest. The Serie A giants are in the market for midfield reinforcements. Particularly after losing Paul Pogba and Nicolo Fagioli to long-term suspensions. But Max Allegri’s side would prefer a more attack-minded option than a ball-winning battle-axe in the Partey mould.
“Juventus were interested in Thomas Partey last summer,” Romano adds. “But then Arsenal decided to keep him. I’m not expecting big movements for Thomas in January.
“I’m told Juventus want more offensive players in midfield than Thomas.”
Juventus need Paul Pogba replacement
Should the injury-hit, 30-year-old enforcer leave Arsenal somewhere down the line – a departure more likely in June than January – The Gunners could once again dip into the Brazilian market in pursuit of a replacement.
Arsenal reportedly scouted Fluminense’s £30 million-rated talisman Andre Trindade during the Copa Libertadores triumph over Boca Juniors.
Partey, meanwhile, was unavailable again for Wednesday’s 2-0, Bukayo Saka-inspired Champions League victory over Sevilla.
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