Speculation is rife as Arsenal’s Thomas Partey draws attention from Italian suitors. As Arsenal gear up for a potential midfield revamp, Partey’s exit could prove integral to their summer transfer strategy.

With Italian clubs showing a keen interest, we delve into the implications for the Gunners.

Manchester City's Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson (R) refuses to return the ball to Arsenal's Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey after conceding a goal during the English Premier League football match between Manchester City and Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, north west England, on April 26, 2023. (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)
Manchester City’s Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson (R) refuses to return the ball to Arsenal’s Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey after conceding a goal during the English Premier League football match between Manchester City and Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, north west England, on April 26, 2023. (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)

Italian interest in Partey intensifies amid Arsenal’s potential midfield overhaul

Arsenal's Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey speaks to Arsenal's English striker Eddie Nketiah (R) during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Emirates Stadium in London on May 28, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey speaks to Arsenal’s English striker Eddie Nketiah (R) during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Emirates Stadium in London on May 28, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

Following a season of fluctuating performances, Arsenal may be preparing to say goodbye to Ghanaian midfielder, Thomas Partey.

Rumours suggest that Partey, despite some strong outings, is being considered for a transfer, with two prominent Italian clubs showing interest.

Performance and potential transfer

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 28: Thomas Partey of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Emirates Stadium on May 28, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 28: Thomas Partey of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Emirates Stadium on May 28, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Despite his impressive stint at Arsenal, there’s been a noticeable dip in Partey’s form towards the end of the season.

This decline has led to speculations about his possible transfer, a move Mikel Arteta is reportedly open to, especially considering Partey’s two years left on his contract.

Funding new acquisitions with Partey’s potential sale

BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - MARCH 15: Moises Caicedo of Brighton & Hove Albion looks on during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace at American Express Community Stadium on March 15, 2023 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – MARCH 15: Moises Caicedo of Brighton & Hove Albion looks on during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace at American Express Community Stadium on March 15, 2023 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Should Partey leave, it’s expected Arsenal will use the funds for midfield reinforcements. Moises Caicedo and Declan Rice are among those being linked to the Gunners.

Specifically, Caicedo, currently a standout at Brighton, possesses qualities similar to Partey and has been on Arsenal’s radar since January.

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC: Declan Rice, Captain of West Ham United lifts the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy after the team's victory over ACF Fiorentina on June 07, 2023. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC: Declan Rice, Captain of West Ham United lifts the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy after the team’s victory over ACF Fiorentina on June 07, 2023. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

However, securing Caicedo won’t come cheap.

With his value reportedly much higher than the £70million Arsenal bid in the previous transfer window, the Gunners have their work cut out.

Italian clubs keen on Partey

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 26: Thomas Partey of Arsenal reacts after Manchester City scored their sides second goal during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Arsenal FC at Etihad Stadium on April 26, 2023 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – APRIL 26: Thomas Partey of Arsenal reacts after Manchester City scored their sides second goal during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Arsenal FC at Etihad Stadium on April 26, 2023 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

With the rumour mill churning, Partey’s potential departure could spark interest from more clubs, but currently, it’s the Italian giants leading the charge.

Italian clubs’ interest in the Ghanaian star only fuels further speculation about his future at Arsenal with Partey also said to be considering a move to Saudi Arabia.

Whether this speculation translates into a solid offer remains to be seen. Arsenal, meanwhile, are reportedly holding out for a ‘good offer’ before considering Partey’s move.

It’s clear, any potential transfer involving Partey will play a key role in the Gunners’ summer transfer strategy and the upcoming Premier League season.