Mikel Arteta already has exciting Thomas Partey replacement that could save Arsenal millions
Arsenal could save millions in the January transfer window by recalling Charlie Patino from his loan spell at Swansea City. The Gunners are set to be without Thomas Partey until February 2024 after the 30-year-old underwent a procedure following his ongoing injury issues, football.london understands.
Partey is now set to miss the remainder of 2023 before heading off on international duty for Ghana for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament. Arsenal are also expected to lose Mohamed Elneny with the 31-year-old likely to be selected for Egypt duty in January.
This will leave Mikel Arteta's options in midfield slightly short with reports claiming the Gunners are plotting to sign another central midfielder when the winter transfer window opens. Arsenal have been tracking Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, football.london understands.
The Spain international was of interest to the Gunners and Barcelona in the summer but he ultimately made the decision to remain at Sociedad. Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz has also emerged as a candidate on Arsenal's shortlist — as per Fabrizio Romano — but Unai Emery would be reluctant to sell the Brazilian given his importance to the team at Villa Park.
If Arsenal were to sign either Zubimendi or Luiz, it would cost them a significant transfer fee. Following their £200million-plus spending spree in the summer, Arteta will need to sell some players in order to raise funds and abide Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations if he wants to sign a new midfielder in January.
However, the North London outfit already have the perfect replacement for Partey in their ranks. Charlie Patino has been tipped as one of the most exciting and talented youngsters at the Emirates Stadium as he continues
Read on football.london
