Mikel Arteta has downplayed speculation that Thomas Partey might leave Arsenal in the summer, saying the midfielder remains a 'very important player' for the club.
Partey’s current deal expires in 2025 and talks about a potential renewal at the Emirates have not yet started.
Arsenal must make a decision about whether to sell the player at the end of the season or risk losing him on a free transfer in just over a year, due to Partey’s sensitive contract situation.
Out for over 140 days due to injury this season, the Ghanaian has only made four starts in the Premier League and nine appearances overall.
The ex-Atletico Madrid player made a rare start in Arsenal’s match against Luton on Wednesday night but was substituted after 67 minutes and replaced by Declan Rice as the hosts triumphed 2-0 at the Emirates.
Following the win, Partey expressed his 'really happy' feelings about the Gunners amid constant rumors about his future in north London.
'My focus is always here. This is my chosen place to play, and I'm genuinely happy every time I'm on the pitch,' he stated.
'I am aware of the numerous rumors, but for me, I’m genuinely happy to be here and to continue playing for this club.
'With my contract, I believe it runs until the end of the season. I have to give my best and strive to perform at the highest level, as I consider being available every time the most important.'
During his press briefing this morning, Arteta emphasized that he was 'really happy' with Partey and that the Ghanaian continued to be a crucial part of his plans.
'He needs to keep his focus here because we have big ambitions, and that’s what we anticipate,' the Arsenal head coach told journalists before the team’s trip to Brighton.
'We require his services because he’s an exceptional player, a very important player for us, and you can also see the kind of impact he can have for us on the field.
'He’s our player, and he has one more year under his contract, and I'm genuinely pleased with him.'
Arsenal acquired Partey from Atleti in October 2020 for £45million after activating the midfielder’s release clause in Madrid.
Partey has participated in 108 matches in all competitions for the north London giants, scoring five goals during his four-year tenure.
It’s uncertain whether Partey will retain his spot in Arteta’s starting XI when they visit Brighton this weekend, aiming to reclaim the top spot from Liverpool in the Premier League.
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