Arsenal Criticized by Gabriel Agbonlahor for Letting Barcelona, PSG Target Leave as Free Agent

With the news that Partey is leaving Arsenal, former footballer Gabriel Agbonlahor criticized the Gunners over the decision not to reach an agreement with the veteran midfielder.

“He’s a good player,” Agbonlahor said (via AS). “I get it—for that price, he’s a decent player. But they’re losing Thomas Partey. It seems a bit strange to me. Arsenal haven’t been able to reach an agreement with Partey—that’s what’s going on—so let’s say it’s about money…

“You’re paying £9 million for [Christian] Nørgaard; just give that to Partey as the salary difference he’s asking for. Why not give it to him? You already know what he can do. It’s very strange.”

A recent report revealed that Barcelona have emerged as his preferred destination, with Mundo Deportivo claiming the LaLiga side are closely monitoring his status. Financially, they view him as a potential bargain.

Partey will have the opportunity to pick his next team and see what they have to offer, which comes when a player opts to become a free agent.