Shaka Hislop urges Arsenal to complete deal for Thomas Partey

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Shaka Hislop has told ESPN FC that Arsenal need to complete the signing of Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey, after the Gunners were linked with a move to land the tough-tackling workhorse.

Partey, 26, showed just what he is capable of at Anfield last time out with a stunning performance that proved to be the underlying catalyst for Atleti’s comeback. Certainly, Partey is quickly becoming one of the world’s best holding midfielders.

Spanish outlet Libertad Digital claimed last month that Arsenal wanted Partey and were willing to meet his £45million release clause, leaving Atleti powerless to avoid accepting a bid. He has a contract at his boyhood club until the summer of 2023.

Former Newcastle and West Ham goalkeeper Hislop believes Arsenal should do all they can to sign Partey in the summer, claiming there aren’t many better midfielders of his style in world football.

“Thomas Partey has been outstanding for Atleti for the last two years,” Hislop said. “If you’re Arsenal and you can somehow prize Partey away from Atletico Madrid, absolutely you do it. All day, every day.

“I’m not sure there are many better box-to-box footballers in the game. Do it now, do it quickly. Maybe Partey feels it is time for a new challenge, a different style of football. Maybe Arsenal can offer him something financially.”

TBR’s view – Would Partey improve upon Arsenal’s current midfield?

Yes, without question. Partey’s lung-busting stamina, beast-like strength and football intelligence makes Hislop’s claim ring true. He is certainly one of the best in Europe in his position, at the moment.

His release clause, then, makes him an absolute bargain. The problem Arsenal will have, is that a lack of Champions League football – or even any European football – would see them lose out. Convincing Partey is the hard part.