A round-up of the latest Arsenal news including the latest on Thomas Partey’s future, the pursuit of a winger and Nicolas Pepe’s revelations on his time in north London.
With training back underway ahead of the upcoming pre-season tour, there is talk of plenty of potential outgoings at the club.
It is looking increasingly likely that Edu might reap Arsenal’s highest ever transfer fee as Smith Rowe’s exit nears amid talks of another Fulham bid for the midfielder.
Patrick Vieira’s managerial career has suffered a setback as he has parted ways with French club Strasbourg
Thomas Partey’s Arsenal stance with Saudi clubs circling
After another injury-ravaged season at Arsenal, it seemed that Thomas Partey’s exit would be straightforward at the end of the season – especially after Jorginho’s extension.
Arsenal Insider revealed that even though Mikel Arteta is open to selling Partey, the prospect of the 31-year-old staying could not be ruled out, and it has now emerged that this is his intention.
Speaking to Charles Watts’ on his YouTube channel, CBS journalist James Benge revealed that Partey’s intention is to stay at Arsenal for the remainder of his contract that ends next year, and contrary to previous reports, there have been no talks over a move to Saudi Arabia.
“From what I understand about Thomas Partey’s situation, he intends to stay for the final year of his contract,” Benge said.
“Everyone talks about Saudi Arabia – there’s been no conversations with PIF so far & no offers from any other Saudi clubs.”
Read more on the future of Thomas Partey at Arsenal here.
Nicolas Pepe slams ‘harassment’ he received at Arsenal
Former Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe divided opinion in his stint at Arsenal.after a £72m signing.
He excited many fans during his first Premier League start as a split striker against LIverpool, causing nightmares for Virgil van Dijk.
However, inconsistency was to blame for his departure after some great games under Unai Emery.
The 29-year-old now plies his trade at Trabzonspor and he spoke of a surprise request Arsenal had if they were to let Pepe leave.
Speaking in an interview with L’Equipe, Pepe shed light on the criticism after his arrival, outlining that he did not choose his extortionate transfer fee.
“That’s what people say to themselves: ‘He had everything to succeed there but he didn’t, so he’s a failure.” After my years in Lille, it’s one, that’s for sure. But we must be able to be self-critical without expecting it from others. Above all, I have a feeling of revenge on myself,” he explained.
It was clear that his brother relaying what people were saying about him online hurt Pepe.
“It was almost harassment. I don’t look at social media a lot, but if my brother relayed “that was said about you”, unconsciously, it touched me. It also came from the media or certain people at the club,” he added..