Thomas Partey at crossroads amid contract talks with Arsenal

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has provided a fresh hint regarding his future at the club, as his current contract approaches its expiration at the end of June. While Arsenal confirmed in their recent retained list that discussions for new terms are ongoing, speculation continues to mount about Partey's long-term stay, particularly given rumored interest from Barcelona and the expected arrival of Martin Zubimendi.

Zubimendi, a standout performer for Real Sociedad and a deputy for the Spanish national team, is widely anticipated to move to north London in a reported £51 million deal. Arsenal's willingness to invest significantly in a holding midfielder naturally raises questions about Partey's role and future prospects at the club.

'We are not getting younger...'

Speaking while on international duty with Ghana this week, Partey remained coy about specifics but offered a glimpse into his thought process. He emphasized the importance of being "where you are happy and where you feel at home," while also acknowledging the practicalities of a professional football career. "At the end of the day we all have a family that needs money, this is [in] our mind," Partey told 3Sports. "We are not getting younger. There are a lot of things where you have to look now with a family, where you want them to be happy."

He distinguished his current mindset from his youth, stating, "When you are young, you are just anywhere." Ultimately, Partey deferred the decision-making process to his representatives and the club, stating, "I’m an Arsenal fan, I can’t decide anything and just have to leave it to my agent and the club. I just want to enjoy football."

This past season, Partey featured in 52 games across all competitions for Arsenal, contributing four league goals and two assists as the Gunners secured a second-place finish in the Premier League and reached the Champions League semi-finals. His comments suggest a multifaceted decision ahead, weighing personal contentment, financial security for his family, and his ambitions within the sport.