Atletico Madrid defensive midfielder Thomas Partey has refused to rule out a move away from the Spanish capital with Arsenal said to be keen, according to Goal.
What’s the word?
After initially joining Atletico’s youth system in 2012, Thomas excelled on loan at Real Mallorca and Almeria before returning to Madrid in 2015.
The 2017/2018 season saw Thomas break into Diego Simeone’s side before he made 32 La Liga appearances this season as a crucial component of the La Liga runners-up.
With a €50m (£44m) minimum release clause, Atletico will be powerless to stop the midfielder’s departure as numerous sides circle.
Get it done
There are many reasons why Arsenal might not back up their interest in Thomas with a concrete offer.
With a projected budget of just £40m, should the Gunners miss out on Champions League football, Thomas might be seen as a superfluous expenditure, especially considering the presence of Lucas Torreira, Granit Xhaka, and Matteo Guendouzi already in his position.
However, Arsenal should ignore these reasons and do everything in their power to bring in the influential Atletico number five.
Since the departure of Patrick Vieira, Arsenal have struggled to assert themselves in midfield battles and despite the signing of Torreira last summer, that trend didn’t noticeably change as the Gunners were torn asunder by counter-attacking sides late in the season.
Xhaka and Guendouzi are both talented players, with the latter especially having room for improvement, but neither is likely to reach the heights of Thomas or offer the same array of skills.
Guendouzi lacks the discipline of an elite center-midfielder while also missing the ability to drive past opposition players. Xhaka is a terrific passer of the ball, but also lacks discipline and tends to go missing for large periods of time.
Thomas is an ultimate all-action midfielder. He can tackle, dribble, and shoot, and is known for his discipline and concentration, no doubt aided by his Simeone education.
The 25-year old is still relatively young and inexperienced in football terms, but he has already displayed elite talent flashes and the drive to improve.
With a base of Torreira and Thomas, Arsenal could finally control the midfield, allowing the Gunners attacking players including Mesut Ozil, the freedom to excel. For £44m in the current market, Thomas is a worthwhile risk as someone who could genuinely help establish Arsenal as a dominant force in English football again.