Arsenal are making a late attempt to sign Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic.
Charles Watts of Goal is also reporting the news, suggesting that the Gunners are willing to pay his release clause.
Arsenal Looking to Sign Thomas Partey on Deadline Day
Long-Term Interest
The Gunners have held an interest in the Ghanaian international throughout much of the season.
However, up until today, it appeared unlikely that the 27-year-old would be moving to The Emirates. The Athletic reported this morning that a move appeared unlikely, while Fabrizio Romano reported that negotiations had not taken place.
Arsenal, though, are they making a last-ditch effort to secure his signature. They are reportedly willing to pay his release fee, which is believed to be in the region of £45 million. Mikel Arteta’s side had been unwilling to pay such a high fee earlier in the summer.
However, according to Charles Watts, the Gunners are now putting their effort in to securing his signature before the deadline of 11pm this evening.
How Would Thomas Partey Fit in at Arsenal?
Partey’s Champions League quality would certainly be a welcomed arrival at The Emirates, as Arteta looks to steer his side back to Europe’s most coveted competition.
The 27-year-old is the defensive midfielder that the Gunners have been crying out for long before the Spaniard’s arrival last December.
Partey has seen his defensive skillset crafted by Diego Simeone, who is considered as one of the best defensive-minded coaches.
Last season saw the Ghanaian make an average of two tackles per game in La Liga, while making three tackles per game in the UEFA Champions League. Furthermore, he also registered a pass completion rate of 84%.
As a result, he could prove to be an excellent signing, and would likely slot in next to Dani Ceballos in midfield.
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