Skip to content

Arsenal sign Partey at last minute, loan Torreira to Atletico

DeFodi Images / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Arsenal and Atletico Madrid eventually figured it all out.

The Gunners finally signed longtime midfield target Thomas Partey, paying the Ghanaian's release clause at La Liga's headquarters to get the deal processed just ahead of Monday's deadline.

The 27-year-old will reportedly cost €50 million.

In a corresponding move, out-of-favor midfielder Lucas Torreira went in the other direction, joining Atletico on a season-long loan.

Partey will reportedly make £250,000 per week at the Emirates, where he'll be expected to solidify a midfield that's lacked bite and creativity at times this season.

Manager Mikel Arteta looked all summer long for someone who could bolster that area of the pitch. Once it was clear Lyon wouldn't lower their asking price for coveted Frenchman Houssem Aouar, all eyes turned back to Partey, who has been linked with the north London lot for several years.

"We have been watching Thomas for a while, so we're now delighted to add such a high-quality player to our squad," Arteta said. "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."

Partey leaves Atletico after making 188 appearances for the club over an eight-year spell.

He'll link up with his new teammates next week after returning from the international break with Ghana.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox