Arsenal fans didn’t see this one coming.
This transfer window has been one of mixed reception for Arsenal fans. While they have capitalised on a few targets and strengthened where they need to strengthen, they have also let some of their targets fall through their grasp; none more so than Thomas Partey.
The Ghanaian international midfielder who currently plays for Atletico Madrid expressed an interest in joining the Gunners earlier in the summer. However, a move never came into fruition. Perhaps because Arsenal couldn’t match his hefty valuation.
According to a report from The Mirror, the Gunners have made their stance even more assertive on this matter. We’re told that fans shouldn’t expect a late pursuit of Thomas Partey, because the board is definitely not prepared to meet his release clause of £45m.
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While Partey would be a solid addition to the Arsenal team, especially given the seemingly imminent dismissal of Lucas Torreira and likely Matteo Guendouzi, the financial risk is too high during these times. Arsenal must look at cheaper options, such as Chelsea’s Jorginho.
Arsenal are yet to raise any real funds this summer, which I would hope the Matteo Guendouzi sale would bring. It looks likely that Torreira will leave on loan, so no funds will be raised here.
Fans can be relatively happy with the deals that have already occurred at the Emirates Stadium this summer. They have signed Willian, Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba and Runar Alex Runarsson, while also keeping hold of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Dani Ceballos.
However, one would feel that if those two midfielders are lost this summer, then at least one replacement should be signed. If it’s not Partey, then it has to be Jorginho. The Gunners board can’t afford to end a positive transfer window on a low, especially in this telling season of reform.
Do you think Arsenal will sign a midfielder this transfer window?