Arsenal’s Thomas Partey could ‘play for anyone’ according to Paul Merson

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Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson was full of praise for new signing Thomas Partey yesterday, insisting the Ghanaian could play for anyone in the Premier League.

Partey joined the Gunners for around £45m on deadline day as Mikel Arteta finally saw a deal get over the line at the last minute.

Since then, the powerful midfielder has immediately imposed himself on the Gunners squad, looking dominant in the middle of the park and putting in a superb display at Man United last weekend.

And Merson, who was speaking on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday yesterday, cannot believe the Gunners only paid £45m for him.

“I can’t speak highly enough of him. When they said Partey looks like he’s going to Arsenal for £45m, I thought ‘am I missing a trick here?’He could play for anyone, I look at Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool.

“I can’t speak highly enough of him, it’s an absolute steal for Arsenal.”

Partey is expected to lead the charge once again this evening as Arsenal travel to Aston Villa looking to continue their ascent up the Premier League table.

Along with Mohamed Elneny, Partey is well on the way to forming the base of any success Mikel Arteta will have at the club.

Merson is right, £45m looks ridiculous money – TBR View

But rather than ridiculous in the usual sense, it’s ridiculous in that it’s a tiny fee to pay for someone who already looks world class.

Partey has been sensational for Arsenal already and you get the impression he will only get better and better. This is a massive plus for Arsenal, who have often been labelled ‘soft’ in midfield over the years.

A top four place is very much in reach this season for the Gunners and Partey will be central to that fight.