Thomas Partey took the chance to thank Arsenal fans for their ‘love and messages’, saying he ‘cannot wait to be part’ of the Gunners after making his deadline-day transfer from Atletico Madrid
Arsenal had identified Partey as a top midfield target earlier in the summer, as well as Lyon’s Houssem Aouar.
However after failing to reach Lyon’s asking price for the Frenchman, Mikel Arteta’s side made a late move for Partey.
Arsenal triggered the £45million release clause in his contract late on Monday afternoon. The move was then confirmed by Atletico on Monday evening, with minutes to spare.
However, the whole saga has left a bitter taste in Diego Simeone’s mouth. That’s after his dream midfield plans were wrecked at Atletico by the Gunners
“It’s a great feeling to be part of a family like this. Thanks so much to everyone for the love, I feel so grateful and I feel so amazed to be part of you. I can’t wait to join you guys.
Thanks so much to everyone for the love, I feel so grateful and so amazed to be part of you.
“And don’t forget, no Thomas, No Partey!”
Arteta was keen to add Partey as he felt his side were a little short in the middle of the park, and speaking to the club’s official website, the Spanish boss praised the midfielder’s character and technical abilities. ‘We identified him a few months ago and we have been following his progress, and obviously, the more you know about the squad, you know more about where you think you can improve it,’ Arteta told the club’s official website. ‘We believe he has the right qualities, with his character and his personality and as well as his technical qualities and positional options that he can give to the team.
Partey is currently at the black stars camp in Antalya for friendly games against Mali and Qatar.