[ad_1]
Arsenal yesterday completed the £ 45.4m signing of Thomas Partey from Atlético Madrid after drastically activating the defensive midfielder’s release clause just hours before Monday’s transfer deadline, in what promises to be a transformative moment. for Mikel Areta’s team.
Partey had been one of Arsenal’s main targets during the summer transfer window, followed by the club for more than two years, signing a four-year deal with the option of one more year.
The possibility of a deal for the 27-year-old Ghanaian international seemed remote for a long time, and Atlético rejected Arsenal’s repeated attempts to negotiate a fee below the buyout clause. However, just 30 minutes from the remaining window, Atlético confirmed that the termination clause had been unilaterally rescinded at La Liga headquarters.
Arsenal had failed in their search for Lyon captain Houssem Aouar after having had a 35 million pound offer rejected, and the departures of Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira, who effectively replaces Partey on loan at Atlético, released the funds needed to close a deal. for Partey.
Arteta said: “We have been watching Thomas for a while, so now we are delighted to add such a high quality player to our team. He is a dynamic and energetic midfielder. He brings a lot of experience from a top-tier club that has competed at the highest level in La Liga and the Champions League for several years.
“We are very impressed with his attitude and approach to the game. He is a smart footballer and we are looking forward to him integrating himself into our system and contributing to the progress we are making at the moment at the club.”
The signing is a huge blow for Arteta, with Partey widely recognized as one of the best in the world in the position. Atlético were said to have been furious after being notified only of Arsenal’s intention to activate the clause in the twilight hours.
Coach Edu added: “Thomas has all the attributes you need to be a top player at Arsenal. He is a leader on and off the pitch and is exactly the type of player and person we want at the club. We already feel like we know Thomas very well based on the work we’ve done closely analyzing his performances of late.
“With his complete game and positive aggressive style, he will be a brilliant addition to our team. We have had a good start to the season and we want to continue to build on this with Thomas now part of our club.”
Partey will wear jersey number 18 and join the Arsenal first team squad after the international break.
