Arsenal defensive midfielder Thomas Partey seems to be surplus to requirements at the Gunners and fancies a move to Juventus over a switch to a club in Saudi Arabia.
That’s according to CBS Sport, who claim that the Ghana international has told interested parties in Saudi Arabia, such as Al-Ahli, Al-Nassr, and Al Khaleej, that he prefers a move to Italian giants Juventus.
This comes as rumours have been swirling about the experienced midfielder’s future, with clubs from mega-rich Saudi Arabia launching offers to sign the 30-year-old midfielder.
But, Thomas Partey, who made 33 appearances in the Premier League for Arsenal last season, is said to favour a move to Juventus over the Saudi Pro League.
The report further states that it remains to be seen whether Juventus, who have had money issues in the past, would be able to afford the midfielder’s wages and transfer fee, which is rumoured to be around £25 million.
Arsenal seemingly no longer need Thomas Partey
With the imminent acquisition of Declan Rice, as well as the potential signing of highly-rated £50 million midfielder Romeo Lavia from Southampton, there may no longer be any room for Partey to start as much as he did last season.
Towards the end of last season, the hugely influential midfielder’s performances began to dip.
Partey seemed tired and ragged and would, at times, make questionable decisions, like the wayward shot in the last minute of the exhilarating 3-3 draw against Southampton.
The youthful energy that potentially Lavia and Rice would bring to the midfield may make Arteta’s decisions on who to start in midfield easier.
Then, there is also the conundrum about Arsenal’s recent signing from Chelsea, Kai Havertz.
If Arsenal decide to line up in a midfield three, with Rice anchoring the midfield and Havertz alongside Martin Odegaard in the two eight roles, then Partey wouldn’t get a look in.
This may come into his thinking when Partey decides his next career move.
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