Atletico Madrid are trying to increase the release clause and extend the contract of Thomas Partey, amid interest from Arsenal, according to reports in Spain.

Ruben Uria of Goal in Spain reports that Arsenal and Manchester United are the two clubs most closely following Thomas Partey, hoping to complete a summer transfer. It all depends on whether Atletico Madrid can convince him to extend his deal first.

Atletico are offering a significant salary increase, from €2.5m to €4.5m. This is still less than €100k-a-week though, so it’s not particularly high by Premier League standards.

The rest of the contract offer is more worrying to prospective buyers, though. Atletico want Partey to sign a deal to June 2025 with a €100m release clause. The player is taking part in talks and Atletico hope to announce an extension in the near future.

Recent reports suggest Arsenal are pushing for the transfer. They already reportedly made contact with the player’s representatives. The only silver lining is that most outlets are in agreement that if Atletico can’t extend the contract, then they’re likely to negotiate the player’s exit this summer.

David Ornstein recently claimed Partey was desperate for a move to Arsenal last summer. Unai Emery was also keen on the player. Unfortunately, Arsenal couldn’t afford it along with their other high-profile deals in the end.