Alan Smith identifies ideal replacement for Arsenal’s £50m star who is out of contract

Alan Smith Urges Arsenal to Plan for Thomas Partey’s Potential Departure. (Image: Getty)

Alan Smith urges Arsenal to begin making arrangements for the potential exit of midfielder Thomas Partey.

Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has urged the club to start planning for the potential departure of Thomas Partey. The Ghanaian midfielder’s contract expires at the end of the current season, and Smith believes Arsenal should be proactive in finding a suitable replacement.

Partey has been a key player for Arsenal since his arrival from Atletico Madrid in 2020. Despite struggling with injuries in the past, he has shown great form this season, becoming a near ever-present in the team. His recent performances, including a standout display in the 5-1 win over Sporting Lisbon, have been crucial to Arsenal’s success.

Smith, however, is concerned about Partey’s long-term fitness and ability to maintain his current level of performance. “Players like Thomas Partey don’t look like they’re capable of what they used to athletically and can’t get about the pitch like they did,” Smith said. He believes that Arsenal should consider bringing in new talent to ensure the midfield remains strong.

Smith has identified Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan as a potential replacement. Reijnders has been in superb form this season and could provide the energy and dynamism that Partey once brought to the team.