Now is not the time to think about the transfer market, as Arsenal still harbour slim hopes of dethroning perennial Premier League champions Manchester City on the final day.
However, chances are Pep Guardiola’s high-flyers will defeat West Ham United in their last game of the season and lift an unprecedented fourth consecutive title.
It’s up to Arsenal to close the gap on the Cityzens after testing their limits this season and challenging their credentials last term, only to collapse down the final stretch.
Declan Rice’s arrival last summer has been a massive coup for Mikel Arteta’s side, but there’s a feeling another midfield signing could hand the Gunners a much-needed quantum leap in quality.
Following an injury-hit 2023/24 campaign, Thomas Partey could wave goodbye to the Emirates Stadium in the coming months.
The Ghana international has tumbled down the pecking order, while his contract in North London runs out next summer, meaning this is Arsenal’s last chance to cash in on him.
Arsenal have been on Kephren Thuram’s for quite some time, and now would be the perfect time for the Gunners to open talks with Nice.
According to Nice-Matin, the son of the legendary Lillian Thuram could follow his sought-after teammate Jean-Clair Todibo through the exit door when the transfer window opens for business.
Upgrade on Partey
At 23, Thuram is about to enter his peak powers, while Partey will be 31 in June.
Age difference aside, the latter has been prone to injuries in recent years and is no longer a dependable option.
On the other hand, Thuram has gone from strength to strength in Ligue 1, playing a pivotal role in Nice’s push for Champions League qualification.
He has made 25 league appearances for Los Aiglons, racking up a goal and an assist.
Francesco Farioli’s men will likely miss out on Europe’s most elite club competition, which would signal Thuram that it’s time to leave.
Expiring Contract
Like Partey, Thuram’s deal at the Allianz Riviera expires at the end of next season.
Since the in-demand midfielder hasn’t shown any ambition to pledge his future to the club, he’ll be available in a cut-price deal this summer.
It would take around £13 million to get the deal over the line, which is a bargain fee given today’s market prices.
On top of his affordable price tag, Thuram’s contract wouldn’t put much burden on Arsenal’s books, making him an ideal cost-effective signing.
Outstanding ball-carrying ability
Unlike Rice, who’s all about composure and finesse, Thuram is a more dynamic midfielder.
In addition to his ability to crack the opposition backline with defence-splitting passes, he’s become known in Ligue 1 for his bursting runs down the middle of the park.
He’s the type of player Arsenal could use well, considering there are no current midfielders on the team able to produce progressive runs like Thuram.
Thuram’s energy and sharpness, combined with Rice’s calmness and vision, could create a backbone for the Gunners’ title quest next season.
But Arsenal should waste no time as Manchester United, Barcelona and Juventus have also taken an interest in the rising French star.
