A Saudi Arabian club have an agreement with Thomas Partey on personal terms, according to a report from the country’s local media.

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)

Saudi Arabian journalist Nawaf Al-Aqeel reports that according to his information, a Saudi club is closing an agreement with Thomas Partey on personal terms for a potential transfer.

This is potentially a significant development, with previous reports suggesting Partey had informed interested clubs in Saudi Arabia that he wasn’t considering a move to the country.

The midfielder reportedly preferred a move to Juventus if he left Arsenal, with the Serie A side keen and initial conversations taking place.

But it was clarified at the time that this was only the current situation, and it was one that could change if the Juventus move didn’t progress.

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Arsenal’s Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey warms up prior to the English Premier League football match between Newcastle United and Arsenal at St James’ Park in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, north east England on May 7, 2023. (Photo by LINDSEY PARNABY/AFP via Getty Images)

Partey was set to hold talks with Arsenal once he returned from holiday, which he now has.

The outcome of those conversations isn’t known, but the Gunners are understood to be open to selling him for a suitable offer.

Arsenal are yet to receive any formal bids, despite the reports of outside interest, but James Benge claims Al-Nassr were prepared to offer €30m (£25.6m).

Other reports suggested Arsenal would only consider bids in excess of £30m.

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: Thomas Partey of Arsenal reacts after Manchester City scored their side’s second goal during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Arsenal FC at Etihad Stadium on April 26, 2023. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Sources in Italy had claimed Juventus would be looking to do a deal for a figure in the region of €18-20m (£15.4-£17.1m).

That’s still a pretty significant valuation gap, at best around £13m shy of Arsenal’s asking price.

In terms of potential replacements, Arsenal have now agreed a deal for Declan Rice, and they also have an interest in Romeo Lavia.