Mikel Arteta wants Thomas Partey to be given a new contract at Arsenal after the midfielder produced his “best season” for the club.
Telegraph Sport reported last month that Partey wants to stay in north London beyond the expiry of his contract this summer.
And Arteta has now confirmed that his intention is for the 31-year-old to remain at Arsenal for at least one more campaign.
Partey has been one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers this season, making 51 appearances in all competitions and avoiding the injury issues that have plagued his previous campaigns in England.
“Yeah,” said the Arsenal manager when asked if he wants Partey to stay at the club. “In regards to Thomas, consistency-wise, it’s been his best season. I think the way he’s played, performed, his availability has been exceptional and he’s a really important player for us.”
It is understood that Partey could be offered a one-year extension with the option of an additional year.
Arsenal are preparing for a summer of change in midfield, with Jorginho set to leave the club as a free agent and join Brazilian side Flamengo.
Arsenal are confident they will be able to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who has a release clause of around £50 million, to strengthen at the base of midfield.
They are also continuing to work on attacking additions, with the club hoping to strengthen at centre-forward and on the wing.
Arteta, who takes his team to relegated Southampton on the final weekend of the season, said Arsenal should be targeting the “best players” and that he wants the club to be the “best in the market”.
“If you want to win major trophies, you have to be the best in the market, no?” he said. “The teams that win have the best players – always, always – at this level.”-The Telegraph
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