Roland Cutinho
Manchester United linked with a shock move for Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey
According to the Sun Live, Manchester United have entered the race alongside Juventus to secure the signing of Arsenal defensive midfielder Thomas Partey this summer.
The 30-year-old joined the Gunners from Atletico Madrid in 2020, with the London club activating his £45 million release clause.
Although Partey has faced injury issues over the past three seasons, he has remained a crucial player for manager Mikel Arteta, primarily in the role of a defensive midfielder.
Partey displayed impressive performances in the initial months of the 2022-23 season, but his form declined towards the end of the campaign. This week, Granit Xhaka’s departure to Bayer Leverkusen was officially confirmed, raising speculation that the Ghanaian international could also leave Arsenal.
Recently, Paul Ince has called on United to sign Partey, and according to the Sun, the Premier League giants are now interested in him. While there have been links suggesting a potential move to Saudi Arabia, Italian powerhouse Juventus are also reportedly in the race to acquire Partey’s services.
With Arsenal signing Declan Rice, the Gunners are preparing to reshape their midfield. Their recent acquisition of Kai Havertz and chances of landing another midfielder opens up the possibility of Partey’s departure.
United made effective use of Casemiro‘s experience last season, benefiting from the Brazilian’s expertise as they underwent Erik ten Hag’s rebuilding process.
The Red Devils believe that Partey, who was highly sought-after during his time at Atletico Madrid, could once again rediscover his best form at Old Trafford. With his strong presence in midfield, the African star would be an upgrade over players like Fred and Scott McTominay.
This could provide Ten Hag with multiple midfield options. Given his adaptation to the Premier League, there is confidence that he can thrive in Manchester.
The addition of Partey alongside Casemiro would allow Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes to focus on their attacking strengths. On paper, the 30-year-old Ghanaian appears to be the ideal midfield reinforcement that the Red Devils have been seeking so far.
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While the Gunners seem open to the possibility of selling their midfield anchor, they will only do so if the price is right.
Due to a limited transfer budget, United might also consider investing the funds in a younger player rather than splashing the cash on a veteran star.
