Arsenal Targets Lucien Agoumé as Surprise Successor to Thomas Partey Amid Contract Uncertainty

Arsenal Transfer Target Agoumé Lined Up as Successor to Thomas Partey Amid Contract Talks

Arsenal are said to be weighing up a potential move for Sevilla’s Lucien Agoumé as a possible successor to Thomas Partey. According to The Athletic, the 23-year-old is one of several midfield options currently under consideration by the club. With Arsenal transfer target Agoumé continuing to impress scouts with his composure and tactical awareness, the move signals a calculated response to the growing doubts surrounding Thomas Partey’s contract situation.

Partey, a pivotal figure for Arsenal when fit, is entering the final year of his deal, which expires on June 30, 2025. Despite a reported mutual desire for both parties to continue, contract negotiations have reportedly stalled, primarily due to disagreements over wages. This has led to a significant chance that the Ghanaian international could depart as a free agent this summer, leaving a void in Mikel Arteta’s midfield.

While Arsenal are reportedly close to securing the signing of Real Sociedad’s Martín Zubimendi, the potential departure of Partey, coupled with Jorginho’s recent exit, necessitates further reinforcements in the middle of the park. This is where the interest in Lucien Agoumé comes into sharp focus.

Agoumé, a 22-year-old French U21 international, joined Sevilla permanently in August 2024 after a loan spell from Inter Milan. He is primarily a defensive midfielder, known for his physicality, tactical awareness, and ball-winning ability. Comparisons have been drawn to a younger Thomas Partey due to their similar playing styles and physical attributes.

Arsenal scouts have reportedly been impressed by Agoumé’s composure, tactical discipline, and ability to dictate play from deep. While some reports suggest he is not being targeted as a direct like-for-like replacement for Partey, he is seen as a valuable strategic addition and a long-term option who can grow into Arteta’s system. His age and promising potential align with Arsenal’s recent recruitment strategy of acquiring young talent with high upside.

Sources indicate that Agoumé is receptive to a move to the Premier League, viewing it as an exciting step in his career. With Sevilla reportedly facing financial difficulties, a deal for the Frenchman could be secured for a relatively attractive price, with valuations ranging from £10-20 million. Arsenal’s existing relationship with Agoumé’s agents, who also represent William Saliba, could further strengthen their position in negotiations.

However, the situation is not without its complexities. Partey is set to have a crucial meeting with Mikel Arteta this week, which could determine his immediate future. While his preference is reportedly to remain in London, interest from clubs in Italy, Turkey, and even his former club Atlético Madrid could sway his decision if Arsenal do not meet his wage demands.

Should Partey depart, Agoumé represents a sensible and potentially high-reward signing for Arsenal. He offers a younger, more durable alternative with room for development under Arteta. The move signals Arsenal’s proactive approach to midfield planning, aiming to build a robust and versatile squad capable of competing for top honors domestically and in Europe for years to come.

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