Arsenal star Thomas Partey has been spotted putting in extra work ahead of his return to Arsenal for pre-season training. The 30-year-old was a crucial player for Mikel Arteta during the Gunners' Premier League title challenge last term - but his form dropped off in the final stretch of the season.
Reports have stated that there were concerns amongst the Arsenal hierarchy regarding Partey's drop off in form and performances which sparked speculation that he could be sold this summer. Juventus are among the clubs thought to be interested in the Ghana international, but there is yet to be a formal approach for his signature.
football.london understands that Granit Xhaka is on the verge of completing a £13million transfer to Bayer Leverkusen - but a move will only be sanctioned once a replacement is signed. Mikel Arteta is looking to revamp his midfield options ahead of next season as the Gunners push to complete a £105million deal to sign West Ham United captain Declan Rice.
Rice would be a natural replacement for Partey or Xhaka given his ability to act as a holding midfielder and drive forward with the ball. The England international is said to have been granted permission to complete a medical ahead of a move to the Emirates Stadium - which Arsenal are hoping to finalise this week.
Kai Havertz became the first arrival at Arsenal this summer after completing a £65million switch from Chelsea to north London. The German may be deployed as a No.8 next season - similar to that of club captain Martin Odegaard - adding another midfield option for Arteta.
Partey is clearly keen on getting up to speed quickly ahead of pre-season training after he was spotted putting in extra work during his holidays. A video has emerged on social media of the Ghana international carrying out training drills whilst wearing an Arsenal shirt.
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Romeo Lavia is of interest to the Gunners with Southampton ready to sell the 19-year-old after they were relegated from the Premier League. The Belgian midfielder could cost around £50million - a fee that could be funded by the sale of Partey as interest continues to grow in the 30-year-old's services.
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