Berta may hold key to Partey's Arsenal future

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey's future is uncertain. Recently appointed sporting director Andrea Berta may help resolve this issue.

The 31-year-old is nearing the end of his best season at Arsenal. However, it’s unclear what will happen next for him.

His importance was highlighted when he received a yellow card. This booking rules him out of the Champions League semi-final against Paris St-Germain. The card came in the 85th minute during a game Arsenal led 5-1.

Partey has made 45 appearances this season and is crucial to Mikel Arteta's team. His absence against PSG will hurt Arsenal's chances of reaching the final.

It seems surprising that Partey is in such limbo. Reports suggest he might leave Emirates Stadium when his contract ends this season.

Arteta gave a vague response about Partey's contract situation last week. When asked about progress, he said, "Yes, there is progress with all players."

He added that he would leave discussions to Andrea Berta and the club. When asked if they want to keep Partey, Arteta stated, "The intention is very clear."

Partey has not signed a new contract with only a month left in the season. This could indicate that Arsenal isn't urgently trying to retain him.

Discussions are ongoing about whether to offer Partey a new deal. It remains unclear if this signals a change in approach for Arsenal.

Berta's arrival as sporting director may provide new options for Partey's future. He and Partey have a long-standing relationship from their time at Atletico Madrid.

Berta approved Partey's £45 million transfer to Arsenal in 2020. Another factor for Arsenal is Martin Zubimendi's expected arrival from Real Sociedad this summer.

If Zubimendi joins, will Partey still have a regular role? Offering him a similar contract of £200,000 per week may not make financial sense if he's not starting regularly.

Last season, Partey made only 15 appearances due to injuries. However, groin surgery at the end of 2023 has resolved those issues.

Still, his age and injury history are factors in any extension offer. If he leaves, interest from abroad is reportedly growing.

He has been linked with a return to Atletico Madrid and interest from Barcelona on a free transfer exists as well. There are also rumors of interest from Saudi Arabia.