Transfer rumour has presented Arsenal with opportunity Arteta can’t miss despite contract decision

Mikel Arteta will have a difficult decision to make in the upcoming January transfer window. 

Arsenal could see some players leave the club this winter.

Jakub Kiwior is expected to depart in January, as Arsenal recognise that the Polish defender is in need of more regular game time than Mikel Arteta is currently willing to afford him.

On top of that, there is now also interest in Thomas Partey. The Ghanaian midfielder has been a fixture in the starting XI for the Gunners so far this season, but is due to become a free agent at the end of the current campaign.

The 31-year-old’s career up to this point has been plagued with recurrent injury issues. Recently, though, he looks to have put those problems behind him.

Now, Barcelona are keen on signing Partey, with the La Liga giant’s sporting director Deco thought to have made initial contact with the midfielder.

Arsenal have decision to make on Thomas Partey

If Barcelona’s interest in Partey is serious, then the Gunners have three options to consider. Arsenal could retain his services until the end of the season, allowing him to return to Spain on a free transfer in the summer, or they could seek to cash in on the former Atletico Madrid man in January.

Alternatively, Arsenal could seek to offer Partey fresh terms, extending his stay at the Emirates Stadium.

As things stand, Arteta is open to Partey signing a new contract at Arsenal. However, before committing to a future with the 51-cap Ghana international at the club, the Spanish coach wishes to see the player prove his fitness over a lengthier period.

Why Mikel Arteta must sell Partey

Whilst Partey has been solid in the middle of the park in recent weeks, he is certainly no longer the player he once was.

If there is the opportunity to fetch a fee for Partey this winter, the Arsenal would be wise to take it, especially as Mikel Merino’s recent return to fitness will now make Arteta less reliant upon the midfielder.

Alternatively, the Gunners could keep him until the end of the season, to offer cover, and take the advice of letting him leave for nothing.

At this stage in his career, though, with his unreliable injury record, there can be no justification for handing Partey a new contract. Barcelona’s interest ought to be taken as a opportunity to offload Partey.