Arteta explains how Partey will transform Arsenal, as deal tops £100m

Thomas Partey

Arsenal have announced the signing of Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey on a “long-term” contract, after triggering his release clause.

The Gunners had identified Partey as a top midfield target, as well as Lyon’s Houssem Aouar.

However after failing to reach Lyon’s asking price for the Frenchman, Mikel Arteta’s side made a late move for Atletico’s Ghana international Partey.

Arsenal triggered the £45million release clause in his contract, a move that was confirmed by Atletico on Monday evening.

After sealing the signing, Gunners boss Arteta explained how Partey’s dynamism will help take his side to the next level.

Arteta told Arsenal’s official website: “We have been watching Thomas for a while, so we’re now delighted to add such a high quality player to our squad.

“He is a dynamic midfielder with great energy. He brings a lot of experience from a top club that has competed at the highest level in La Liga and the Champions League for several years.

“We’re very impressed with his attitude and his approach to the game. He’s an intelligent footballer and we’re looking forward to him integrating into our system and contributing to the progress we’re building at the moment at the club.”

Technical director Edu added: “Thomas has all the right attributes to be a top player for Arsenal. He is a leader on and off the pitch and he is exactly the kind of player and person we want at the club.

“We already feel like we know Thomas very well based on the work we have done analysing his performances closely in recent times.

“With his all-round game and positive aggressive style, he will be a brilliant addition to our squad. We’ve made a strong start to the season and we want to continue to build on this with Thomas now part of our club.”

Cost of Partey deal to top £100m

Thomas Partey

Meanwhile, reports claim Arsenal’s deal to sign Partey will, overall, top the £100million mark.

The Daily Mirror says that, as well as the midfielder’s release clause, the Gunners will pay him £260,000 per week.

What’s more, there is a £2.5million signing-on fee, with Partey’s agent to earn 10 per cent of the deal in commission.

The newspaper adds that Arsenal had tried to negotiate with Atletico for Partey all summer. However after failing to drive down his fee they decided on their fall-back option to trigger his release clause.

Meanwhile in a separate deal, Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira will move to Atletico on a loan deal. The Uruguay international has fallen down the pecking order at The Emirates under Arteta.

Indeed he had already reached an agreement – including personal terms – with Diego Simeone’s side.

Arsenal said in a statement: “Everyone at Arsenal wishes Lucas well during his time with Atletico Madrid this season.”

Atletico have the option of making Torreira’s stay in Madrid permanent.

Thomas Partey

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