Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has advised the club to prepare for the possible departure of Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey, whose contract is set to expire next summer.
Although the 31-year-old has delivered strong performances this season, including a crucial role in Arsenal’s 5-1 Champions League win over Sporting Lisbon, uncertainty surrounds his long-term future at the club.
Smith recommended that Arsenal take a proactive approach by identifying potential replacements for Partey, who has been a key figure in the team’s midfield. One such candidate, according to Smith, is Tijjani Reijnders.
"I think Arteta is looking at Tijjani Reijnders because players like Thomas Partey don't seem capable of what they used to do athletically and can't cover the pitch as they once did," Smith said, as quoted by Tribuna.com.
"Arsenal have spent a lot of money, but if they've got the funds, you just want to keep improving the squad," Smith added.
Despite Smith’s concerns, manager Mikel Arteta has remained calm and focused on the situation, with no immediate indication that Partey’s future will be resolved soon.
