Arsenal star Thomas Partey's stance on Saudi Arabia transfer interest

Thomas Partey’s ‘priority’ is to remain in Europe amid interest from several Saudi Arabia Pro League clubs.

The likes of Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante have already taken the plunge and moved to Saudi this summer and Partey has emerged as the latest big-name target.

The Ghana international joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid three years ago and has played a pivotal role in the progress the Gunners have made under Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal are, however, open to the possibility of the 30-year-old leaving this summer, given he has two years left on his contract allied the ongoing concerns surrounding his fitness and durability.

According to Fabrizio Romano, despite the fortunes on offer, Partey isn’t yet sold on a move to the Pro League and would rather consider his options and explore the possibility of remaining in north London or joining another European club.

Reports earlier this week suggested Partey has given the green light to Juventus who arepreparing an offer of €20m for the defensive midfielder.

Arsenal’s willingness to sell, particularly at this juncture in the window, could hinge on how quickly they are able to conclude the signing of Declan Rice from West Ham.

The Gunners have already failed with two bids for the England international but are set to return with a third offer they hope will break the deadlock.

Manchester City are set to formally enter the race but it is understood that the 24-year-old remains intent on joining the Gunners having been sold on the plan outlined by Mikel Arteta.

The Hammers’ chairman, David Sullivan, had hope to instigate a bidding war by confirming Rice was for sale following his side’s landmark Europa League Conference triumph.

City, however, will only make a formal approach if they are certain that Rice is keen on a move to the recently crowned treble winners.

Manchester United, meanwhile, are considered outsiders in the race to sign Rice, despite being prepared to include Harry Maguire or Scott McTominay as potential makeweights.

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