Mikel Areta has insisted that Thomas Partey will stay at Arsenal.
There has been speculation over the future of the midfielder, who was late joining up with the Gunners’ squad for their three-match tour of the United States.
Ghana international Partey, 30, is among the England-based players being pursued by Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli.
He joined Arsenal from Spanish side Atletico Madrid in 2020 after the Gunners activated a £45.3m release clause in his contract.
He has been a key player, featuring in 33 Premier League matches for Arteta’s team last season, scoring three goals as they finished as runners-up to Manchester City.
But there have been reports that he could be sold following the recent £100m signing of Declan Rice from West Ham.
However, speaking at a press conference in New Jersey, Arsenal boss Arteta made it clear that Partey will not be leaving.
Asked whether he expected him to stay, Arteta said: “Yes. Thomas is a super important player for us.”
Many players will be tempted by the money on offer in Saudi, but it appears that Partey wants to stay in north London.
Arteta explained: “Every time I had a conversation with him, he says he wants to stay with us. There is nothing there at all.”