Arsenal midfielder attracting top European interest as deal nears end

Thomas Partey is edging closer to the Arsenal exit as Fenerbahce step up efforts to bring the Ghanaian midfielder to Turkey following the expiration of his contract.

Partey’s deal at the Emirates is due to run out on 30 June, and with no extension agreed, he is expected to leave on a free transfer. Talks between Arsenal and the player’s representatives have been ongoing for months but have failed to produce a breakthrough.

According to Turkish sources, Fenerbahce have initiated negotiations to sign the 32-year-old, who is also attracting interest from Galatasaray and Barcelona.

Fenerbahce’s sporting director Devin Ozek is reportedly in the United Kingdom to hold discussions, with manager Jose Mourinho said to be pushing for Partey’s arrival.

The Turkish club are looking to reshape their midfield and are targeting experienced options, with Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi also on their shortlist. Partey appears to be the preferred choice, especially with his availability as a free agent simplifying negotiations.

Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 and went on to make 149 appearances across four seasons. Injuries often disrupted his rhythm, but when fit, he provided balance and authority in midfield, playing a key role in Mikel Arteta’s system.

Last season, he featured 52 times in all competitions as Arsenal pushed Liverpool for the Premier League title and made a deep run in the Champions League. Despite his contributions, the club have been preparing for a midfield rebuild and appear ready to move on.

Arsenal are close to finalising a deal for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, who is widely expected to be Partey’s replacement. Lucien Agoume of Sevilla and Brentford’s Christian Norgaard are also under consideration as the Gunners look to reinforce the position.

Partey’s departure would mark the end of a mixed spell in North London. At his best, he anchored Arsenal’s midfield with composure and tactical intelligence, but persistent injuries and inconsistency often limited his impact.

With options in Spain, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, the experienced midfielder is not short of suitors. However, Fenerbahce appear to be leading the race, with talks accelerating and Mourinho’s involvement potentially decisive.

Unless there is a late twist, Partey will leave Arsenal at the end of the month and could begin a new chapter in Istanbul before the start of pre-season.

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