Atletico will only let Partey leave if £45 million release clause is triggered

Atletico Madrid will only let Partey leave if his £45 million release clause is triggered and are not interested in player swaps involving the Ghanaian midfielder, according to Spanish journalist David Vinuesa Malbac. 

Thomas Partey is Arsenal’s primary transfer target in the upcoming transfer window and the Gunners will do everything in their power to bring the player to the Emirates. The Ghanaian is believed to be keen on moving to the English club and has rejected an offer to extend his contract with the Rojiblancos. 

Recently, there has been speculation in the media that Partey could still choose to sign a new deal with Atletico and reject a move to North London. Some have reported that the player wants to play European football next year and is put off by the fact that Arsenal might not be able to offer that to him. 

Certain sections of the media have discussed a potential swap deal between the two clubs that would see Partey move to the Emirates and one of Lacazette or Guendouzi head to the Wanda Metropolitano. It is believed that Atletico will not entertain the idea of a swap deal and are not willing to accept a lower offer for the player. 

The Spanish club will only sign off on the sale of Partey if they receive his buyout clause in full from Arsenal or any other interested club.