While the Gunners were pushing to strengthen the team from the beginning of the summer transfer window, reputable sources reported the interest of the club in the skilled midfielder.
The rumours looked reliable until we were made to understand that the deal hit the rock due Arsenal's refusal go match the demands included in his contract clause.
With the urgency to fill in the creative void at the middle of the park, Mikel Arteta had to reignite the pursuit process today, the last day of the window and now, the £45m is all done.
Partey joined from Atletico Madrid where he has been since 2012 and takes a whopping 188 appearances. He was a part of the side that won the UEFA Europa League and Super Cup in 2018.
The 27-year old was instrumental in Atletico's third-place finish in the La Liga last season and also in their Champions League push before they got eliminated in the quarter final stage.
He had his medical in Spain since the deal was done in a hurry. Also, club footballing activities are on hold for now as a result of the international break. He will fly to Turkey to join the Ghanaian national side then show up in London before the trip to Etihad.
“Thomas has all the right attributes to be a top player for Arsenal", Edu, the Arsenal technical director, said."He is a leader on and off the pitch and he is exactly the kind of player and person we want at the club. We already feel like we know Thomas very well based on the work we have done analysing his performances closely in recent times.
"With his all-round game and positive aggressive style, he will be a brilliant addition to our squad. We’ve made a strong start to the season and we want to continue to build on this with Thomas now part of our club.”Commenting on Partey, Arteta said: “We have been watching Thomas for a while, so we’re now delighted to add such a high quality player to our squad. He is a dynamic midfielder with great energy. He brings a lot of experience from a top club that has competed at the highest level in La Liga and the Champions League for several years.
"We’re very impressed with his attitude and his approach to the game. He’s an intelligent footballer and we’re looking forward to him integrating into our system and contributing to the progress we’re building at the moment at the club.”Partey has been handed the number 18 jersey and in case you missed it, Lucas Torreira has moved the opposite direction. The Uruguayan has joined Atletico Madrid on loan.
Earlier today, Matteo Guendouzi also moved out to be with Hertha Berlin. Both are season-long loan deals. The window is officially closed.
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