The manager of Ghana’s national team has urged Thomas Partey to turn down a move to Arsenal.
Thomas has become Arsenal’s top target for the summer, with Mikel Arteta keen to re-shape his midfield.
The Atletico Madrid star has a €50m release clause in his contract, on which there are three years remaining. Despite their admiration of the player, Arsenal are reluctant to meet that price.
However, they are still trying to lure Thomas to the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners hope to tempt Atletico into selling by offering a swap deal.
But now, Thomas has been warned that a move to Arsenal would not be the best option for his career.
That’s according to his national team manager, Charles Akonnor. The Ghana boss is concerned about the lack of Champions League football on offer at the Emirates.
Akonnor told Starr FM: “Honestly, I wouldn’t want him to move to Arsenal because with Atletico, he will always play Champions League football. His position is guaranteed and he will always play.
“With Arsenal, I’m not too sure. Arsenal fans will kill me [for saying he should not join them]. I hope that, and I’m sure money issues will come in, but I hope that whatever he asks for, Atletico will be able to pay.”
Indeed, Atletico are hoping to tie Thomas down to a new contract.
And in a further blow to Arsenal, that new deal would see his release clause rise to €100m.
However, Arsenal are hoping to raise funds by offloading seven players, in hope of being able to afford the 27-year-old.