Arsenal fans shower Thomas Partey with praise after Arteta’s cryptic contract update, urging the club to keep the influential midfielder at all costs

Mikel Arteta has sent a clear message to Arsenal transfer chief Andrea Berta over Thomas Partey’s expiring contract. The experienced midfielder is coming towards the end of his deal and with no sign of progress being made over an extension he is free to negotiate with other clubs.

Mikel Arteta has previously stayed tight-lipped on Arsenal's summer plans, but he has now offered a rare insight into how he wants his squad to look next season