Arsenal are more than likely to sell Granit Xhaka this summer. This is essentially common knowledge, with the Swiss international playing his last game of a terrific season by scoring a brace against Wolves. It was an emotional celebration which pretty much gave it away to the fans that he knows he’ll leave.
However, news which has emerged today suggests that Thomas Partey could be the next to go. The Telegraph claims that Arsenal are willing to sell Partey as part of their midfield reshuffle, which got me thinking.
How could Arsenal’s midfield look next season? Well, based on all the reports and analysing the squad, here’s my prediction.
How Arsenal’s midfield could look without Thomas Partey & Granit Xhaka
Firstly, if Thomas Partey does leave, then Romeo Lavia needs to be signed. Numerous reports are linking Arsenal with a move for the standout Southampton teenager. The move makes complete sense since Mikel Arteta would be replacing Partey with another deep-lying midfielder who could play the same role by spraying passes and dictating the play from a defensive midfield position.
Secondly, Granit Xhaka would be excellently replaced by Declan Rice. Although they’re not the same mould of players, Declan Rice could fill the void left by Granit Xhaka by acting as the box-to-box midfielder. It’s not always the case, but he’s played this role for West Ham, particularly in the Europa Conference League where David Moyes has had more reason to experiment.
Thirdly, I do think Martin Odegaard will stay. Despite the interest from Paris Saint-Germain, he’ll stay as the Gunners captain since he has professed just recently about loving the club and wanting to stay for a much longer time. So, Odegaard will complete the trio as the attacking, free-roaming midfielder.
How do you think Arsenal will lineup next season?