Thomas Partey Open to Juventus Move as Arsenal Eye Declan Rice
Introduction
Thomas Partey has informed Juventus he is keen on joining the Serie giants this summer. The Ghana international joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid three years ago and has played a pivotal role in the progress the Gunners have made under Mikel Arteta. Arsenal are, however, open to the possibility of the 30-year-old leaving this summer, given he has two years left on his contract allied the ongoing concerns surrounding his fitness and durability. Several Pro League clubs in Saudi Arabia are understood to be keen on signing the experienced midfielder and are prepared to pay as much as €40million for his services. According to Sky Italy, however, Partey has given the green light to Juventus who are now preparing an offer of €20m for the defensive midfielder.
Arsenal’s Willingness to Sell
Arsenal’s willingness to sell, particularly at this juncture in the window, could change given their hopes of signing Declan Rice have been greatly reduced by Manchester City’s decision to officially enter the race to sign the West Ham skipper. The Gunners have already seen two bids rejected for the England international but the bidding war the Hammers had been banking on has finally materialised.
Declan Rice’s Potential Move
Declan Rice had been earmarked as Arsenal’s replacement for Thomas Partey (Picture: Getty)It has been widely accepted that Rice has had his heart set on a move to Arsenal, but news of City’s impending offer has coincided with news that player is open to any offer that West Ham deem acceptable. Should he wish to force a move Arsenal, however, Danny Murphy believes Rice may ultimately need to go on strike. He told talkSPORT: ‘As of now Man City aren’t in – my understanding is they have not committed yet and I’ve heard nothing about Bayern Munich – so Arsenal don’t have to rush.
Conclusion
Thomas Partey is also wanted by clubs in Saudi Arabia (Picture: Getty)‘I know he’s not that type of lad but sometimes you have to be Craig Bellamy, Joey Barton – you’ve got to look after yourself. ‘I only had it once in my career, but you have to be able to follow through. ‘It means you have to make it perfectly clear, ‘If you keep me here I won’t be playing’, and even if you don’t really believe it long-term, you have to do it and make them believe. ‘Is it a professional thing to do? It doesn’t matter. You’ve got to look after yourself. ‘The big question mark for Dec is if Man City do come in late, the choice over whether to leave London or not. For more stories like this, check our sport page. Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.