Arsenal eye long-term Partey replacement as January target 'practically certain' to leave

Arsenal are linked with signing a potential long-term replacement for Thomas Partey.

Posted Thursday, December 15, 2022 by Express.co.uk

Arsenal transfer news: Ibrahima Bamba could be a long-term replacement for Thomas Partey

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Vitoria Guimaraes midfielder Ibrahima Bamba. It is claimed an immediate sale of the 20-year-old is 'practically certain' and his next career move will happen in January.

Bamba is a defensive midfielder who could be viewed as a long-term replacement for Thomas Partey at Arsenal. Partey turns 30 next summer and has two-and-a-half years remaining on his contract at the Emirates.

But he has been hampered by injury problems throughout his time at the club so far. Preparing a younger player for the role at the base of the midfield would be a wise move by Mikel Arteta.

Brazilian Danilo has been linked with a move following a successful domestic season with Palmeiras. But now Bamba's name can be added to the list of players Arsenal are looking at in that position.

Portuguese outlet O Jogo says the Gunners and Paris Saint-Germain are interested in the player. Vitoria are looking to raise funds in January and Bamba is a player who can help in that regard.

The report adds that it is almost certain a deal will be finalised over his departure and he will have a new club in January. Bamba has a release clause in his contract of just under £26million (€30m).

But both Arsenal and PSG would be hopeful of agreeing a fee at a lower price than that due to his lack of experience in the first team. The Italian, who can also represent Ivory Coast at international level, joined Vitoria from Pro Vercelli in 2020 but first had to sell for time in the club's B team.

Bamba has made just 25 senior appearances following his professional debut against Benfica in February this year. He has also played in central defence this season, so his versatility could provide a useful option for Arteta.

Mohamed Elneny is currently the main cover for Partey at Arsenal. The Egyptian is out of contract in the summer, so adding depth to that position would be understandable.

Albert Sambi Lokonga was used in Elneny's absence during the Europa League group stage. However, the Belgian prefers to play as a No 8 rather than in a deeper position.

After beating Lyon and AC Milan during the mid-season trip to Dubai, Arsenal face Juventus on Saturday in their final friendly before the resumption of the Premier League. Arteta will be hoping to give the likes of Aaron Ramsdale a run out following his lack of match action in recent weeks.