Diego Simeone is hardly surprised by speculation linking Atletico Madrid star Thomas Partey with a host of European giants including Arsenal, speaking to Goal.
If there is anyone in world football who knows how it feels to lose key players on an almost annual basis, it is Simeone.
Just last summer, Antoine Griezmann, Diego Godin, Lucas Hernandez, Juanfran and Rodri headed for the exits.
And after another campaign in which he has established himself as one of the most complete midfielders on the planet, Partey could be the next to pack his bags.
The explosive Ghana international has a release clause of just £45 million in his contract and, try as they might, Atleti have failed to tie him down to a new deal.
That has opened the door for Arsenal to secure one of the best bargain signings of recent years, with Goal claiming that the Gunners will triple Partey’s wages despite the fact that funds are tighter than ever at a club who look set to miss out on Champions League football yet again.
But Simeone, as ever, is just taking things in his stride.
“Thomas is the one who best understands this position and the transition from defence to attack, shooting, scoring, providing assists and playing passes between the lines,” the 2014 La Liga winner explains.
“When he’s at his best level consistently, he’s so good that all the best teams in Europe are looking at him.”
Speaking in April, Partey’s father claimed that talks were being held between Arsenal and the Madrid-based powerhouse.
Almost two months on, the rumours are only intensifying.
Partey is the sort of player who would stroll into Mikel Arteta’s starting XI without breaking sweat, representing an immediate upgrade on the likes of Granit Xhaka and Lucas Torreira while threatening to take the Gunners to a whole new level.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
