Thomas Partey is hopeful of signing a new contract with Arsenal and is in talks with the club over an extension, reports have revealed.

Partey’s current deal expires in the summer and the initial expectation was that a return to La Liga, where he made his name with Atletico Madrid, was on the cards. Diego Simeone’s side have been linked with a reunion but he was also reportedly keen to join Barcelona instead.

It emerged as recently as March that Arsenal were not likely to extend Partey’s contract, but that all changed when The Athletic confirmed the Gunners’ desire to keep him around beyond the end of the season.

The 31-year-old has established himself as a key player for manager Mikel Arteta, who has informed Arsenal’s decision-makers of his desire to see Partey’s contract extended.

The Telegraph add that there is a mutual interest in fresh terms, with Partey enjoying life both at Arsenal and in London.

Partey is thought to be keen on a two-year contract, which could take the form of a one-year deal with the option for a further 12 months. Negotiations have been held but there is still work to do before an agreement is struck.

Importantly, it is stressed that Partey is still prepared to consider his options and is not closing any doors, aware that there is still a chance Arsenal will not agree to his demands and he may be forced to leave on a free transfer.

Arteta, who admitted earlier this week that there had been “progress” in the club’s contract talks with every player, declined to offer a further update when quizzed on the latest reports on Partey’s future.

“I already gave the update the other day and I think it’s not for me to give any more information about that,” he said after Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace.

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