Thomas Partey facing Arsenal exit as contract negotiations stall with Ghana international linked with free transfer to Barcelona and Atletico Madrid

According to ESPN,Partey’s time at Arsenal appears to be drawing to a close, with the Ghanaian midfielder reportedly set to depart the north London club at the end of the month after a breakdown in contract renewal discussions. The Premier League side is understood to have offered to maintain his current wages, reportedly around £200,000 per week. However, Partey’s camp is pushing for a pay increase, an impasse that has proved to be a major stumbling block in talks, as reported by CaughtOffside.

Partey's potential availability on a free transfer has piqued the interest of several major European clubs. Spanish giants Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, his former employers, are both believed to be tracking developments closely.

In addition to interest from La Liga, Partey has also reportedly held discussions with Fenerbahce. The Turkish outfit has presented a formal offer to the midfielder, as have AC Milan, where new head coach Massimiliano Allegri is keen on bolstering his squad with experienced reinforcements.

As Arsenal prepare for the 2025/26 campaign, manager Mikel Arteta is already looking to reshape the midfield. Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi is reportedly on the verge of joining the Gunners, a move that further suggests Partey’s departure is imminent. The Spanish midfielder is seen as a long-term solution for the holding midfield role, providing Arteta with a technically proficient and durable option to anchor his tactical system.