Arsenal superstar midfielder Thomas Partey could leave the club in the summer transfer window amid their search for a new holding player, according to a tweet from journalist Fabrizio Romano.

In Romano’s tweet, he wrote: “Understand there’s concrete chance for Thomas Partey to leave Arsenal this summer. Clubs are interested and there are discussions about his exit. Current contract expiring in June 2025 and no talks to extend as of today. Arsenal priority remains Declan Rice.”

Who is interested in a move for Thomas Partey?

As things stand, if Partey decides to leave Arsenal in the summer, he will likely depart the Premier League altogether – no other clubs in the division have registered an interest in him as of yet.

Despite this, several clubs in Saudi Arabia appear keen on snapping him up. Several high-profile players have made the jump to the Middle East over the past year – including Ruben Neves, N’Golo Kante and Cristiano Ronaldo.

It would not be surprising to see Partey move to Saudi Arabia. Given his age of 30 years old, clubs in the Premier League may be unwilling to take a gamble on him. However, his star power will be attractive to Saudi Arabian clubs, as they look to build interest in their league – and they can certainly afford his requested wages.

Will Arsenal benefit or suffer if Thomas Partey leaves the club?

While Arsenal will suffer from losing a world-class defensive midfielder in the Ghanaian international, they look poised to replace him with someone even better – Declan Rice.

Rice possesses all of Partey’s energy and defensive doggedness, alongside excellent technical ability and a wonderful range of passing. He is the complete holding midfield – while Partey was a great defender, ball-playing was never his strongest attribute.

Moreover, the Gunners are also in pursuit of Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia. While he isn’t currently on Partey’s level, it’s important to remember that he is just 19 years of age – his potential in the modern game appears to be limitless.

As such, while Partey’s departure will be an unfortunate loss, Arsenal are in a good position to replace him and upgrade upon his weaknesses.