Mikel Arteta has clear stance on Thomas Partey

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said that Thomas Partey is a super important player in the squad amid speculation over his future.

The Ghana international has been regularly linked with a move away from the Gunners this month amid interest from several Saudi clubs.

Al-Ahli are one of the teams keen on landing his signature, but Arteta has insisted that he wants Partey to be in the team next season.

He said: "Without a question of a doubt, Thomas Partey is a super important player for us and for me. I want him to be in the team."

Partey has been the regular in the number six position for Arsenal since 2020, but the situation could change with Declan Rice's arrival.

Rice is expected to play in the holding midfield role for the Gunners and Partey could be restricted to minutes off the bench next term.

Kai Havertz and Emile Smith Rowe are among candidates to occupy the number eight position for the Gunners in the coming season.