Ghanaian and African football legend Asamoah Gyan has urged Arsenal to avoid delaying contract talks with midfielder Thomas Partey, warning that the club risks losing their “best midfielder” to another major European powerhouse.
In an exclusive interview with Africa Foot, the 39-year-old former Sunderland striker criticized the Gunners for hesitating in their negotiations with his fellow countryman, who is nearing the end of his current deal.
Partey’s contract is set to expire at the end of the 2024/25 season, and with just a few months remaining, Gyan believes the midfielder’s performances this season more than justify a renewal. Partey has played a key role in Arsenal’s Champions League run, particularly in the successful quarter-final tie against Real Madrid.
“Why are there delayed talks?” Gyan asked. “A new contract for Thomas (Partey) shouldn’t be debatable, because he has arguably been their best player—and ultimately their best midfielder—this season.”
“For me, he absolutely deserves a new contract, without further questions. They are a better team with him on the pitch. He covers so much ground, and he has now proven he can stay fit for an entire season,” he added.
Despite his contributions, questions continue to swirl around Partey’s future at the Emirates. Unless a new agreement is reached soon, the Ghana international will leave Arsenal as a free agent this summer.
Since joining the club in 2020, the 31-year-old has made 161 appearances and scored nine goals. He has helped Arsenal to back-to-back second-place Premier League finishes in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons and has now guided the Gunners into the semi-finals of the Champions League.
“I can guarantee you—he can still play football at the highest level across Europe,” Gyan insisted. “And if Arsenal delay giving him a new contract, of course other top teams will come knocking. Again, I think Arsenal absolutely still need Thomas for a few more seasons.”
Meanwhile, Partey’s former club Atlético Madrid has been linked as a potential destination if he becomes a free agent this summer. Barcelona have also reportedly shown interest in the Ghanaian, who made 257 appearances earlier in his career across spells with Almería, Mallorca, and Atlético Madrid.
