Shock Exit Looms: Arsenal Star Set to Leave This Summer Despite Best Season Yet!

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is set to become a free agent this summer, with his current contract heading toward expiry at the end of June, according to Football Insider. Despite playing a key role this season, the Ghanaian appears bound for the Emirates exit door after four years with the club.

Partey has been one of Arsenal’s more consistent performers during the 2024/25 campaign, returning from long-term injury to reclaim a vital place in Mikel Arteta’s midfield. The 31-year-old has made more appearances this season than in any of his previous four at the club, and has also contributed more goals — underlining his value both defensively and going forward.

However, despite his resurgence, Arsenal have shown no signs of offering him a contract extension. Sources suggest that while the club value his recent contributions, they are looking to refresh the midfield with younger, long-term options in the summer. With Thomas Partey’s deal due to expire in June and no renewal currently on the table, his departure looks increasingly inevitable.

Partey joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in October 2020 after the Gunners activated his £45 million release clause. He arrived with a big reputation as a defensive midfield powerhouse, but his time at the Emirates has been plagued by injuries and inconsistency — at least until this current campaign.

This season, however, has seen Partey return to form with a string of dominant displays in both the Premier League and Champions League. His ability to break up play, carry the ball forward, and shield the defence has been critical to Arsenal’s deep European run and their Premier League title push.

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 22: Thomas Partey of Arsenal acknowledges the fans after the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and West Ham United FC at Emirates Stadium on February 22, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arteta has regularly praised Partey’s professionalism and influence, particularly given his experience in high-pressure games. Yet the club’s long-term vision may not include a player in his 30s with a difficult injury history, especially when younger midfielders like Mikel Merino, Declan Rice, and even academy talents like Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri are emerging.

There will undoubtedly be plenty of interest in Partey should he hit the open market. Clubs in Serie A and the Saudi Pro League have previously been linked with him, and his proven quality at the highest level will appeal to many top European sides seeking midfield reinforcement.

As Arsenal prepare for what could be a pivotal summer transfer window, Partey’s impending exit would mark the end of an era — and free up space for the club to reshape their midfield. It also signals that Arteta is ready to make bold decisions in his pursuit of building a squad capable of sustained success at home and in Europe.

While there’s still time for a dramatic U-turn, all signs currently point to Thomas Partey’s Arsenal journey coming to a close — and if so, he’ll be hoping to bow out with silverware before saying goodbye to North London.