Arsenal are working hard on bringing in Thomas Partey from Atletico Madrid, according to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth.
The Ghanaian has become one of Atletico’s best players in the past few years. His importance to the team was underlined by the fact that the midfielder played 46 games last season, scoring four goals.
The North London club have reportedly earmarked the 27-year-old midfielder as one of the priority signings this summer, but the Emirates club have been reluctant to pay-up the release clause in his contract.
Speaking on the Sky Sports Transfer Show, Sheth revealed that Lucas Torreira could be the key factor in this deal. The Spanish side are reportedly interested in signing the Uruguayan but only on a loan deal.
The Sky Sports reporter further added that the Emirates club want guaranteed money for Torreira which is where the deal is hanging at the moment. Speaking on the Sky Sports Transfer show, he said:
“Arsenal want Partey, Atletico want Torreira. But there is one issue, Atletico want Torreira on loan, while Arsenal want to sell or at the very least ensure that there is obligation attached to any loan move”
“Arsenal are well aware that if they can do business with Atletico (for Torreira) that could then smooth the path to sign Thomas Partey.
“Edu, Arteta and the rest of the recruitment team are working very hard on making it ‘Partey Time’ at the Emirates.”
It is encouraging that the club are continuing their pursuit of a supremely talented player. His signing will instantly improve the Arsenal midfield. The Ghanaian has a unique set of skills that allow him to contribute effectively on either side of the pitch.
To make this transfer a reality, the Gunners will have to trigger his release clause which stands at £45m. If they can pull it off, it would be quite a coup for the North Londoners.
Arsenal will get a shot of quality with a player as good as Partey and fans will be hoping that this deal does go through. There is still over a week left in the transfer window and it will be interesting to see how this unfolds.
