With contract talks still unresolved, newly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta is expected to play a critical role in shaping the outcome.

Partey has become a key component of Mikel Arteta's preferred starting XI, amassing 45 appearances this season and demonstrating his value through consistent performances. His importance to the team was highlighted recently when his suspension for the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain - earned through a late booking in a 5–1 victory - was met with visible frustration from both players and supporters.

Despite his form, Partey's future at the Emirates Stadium remains in limbo, with his current contract set to expire at the end of the season. Conversations are ongoing, but as it stands, there has been no formal agreement on a renewal.

Manager Mikel Arteta addressed the matter cryptically when questioned last week. "Yes, there is progress with all the players," he said, before deferring to the club's hierarchy: "I'll leave that to Andrea (Berta) and the club to decide and to talk about."

Pressed further on whether the club intends to retain Partey, Arteta replied: "The intention is very clear. I'll leave that to Andrea and the club to take a step forward."

The lack of urgency in negotiations - despite the season entering its final month - has raised speculation that Arsenal may be prepared to part ways with the Ghanaian international. Sources close to the club suggest that Berta's arrival has introduced a fresh perspective regarding Partey's long-term value and role within the squad.

Berta and Partey are no strangers. The two share a longstanding professional relationship dating back to their time at Atletico Madrid, and it was Berta who oversaw Partey's transfer to Arsenal in 2020 for 45 million pounds. That connection could yet influence discussions as the Gunners weigh up their midfield options heading into the summer.

Among the key considerations is the anticipated signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. Should the Spaniard arrive, it may limit Partey's role in the starting lineup - calling into question the financial wisdom of extending his current 200,000 pounds-per-week contract.

In addition, Partey's injury history remains a concern. He made only 15 appearances last season due to recurring fitness issues, although reports suggest that the groin surgery he underwent in late 2023 has resolved those problems.

Nonetheless, at 31, with a mixed injury record and a sizeable wage, Arsenal may hesitate to commit to a long-term or high-value deal. If Partey does depart, interest from several European and Middle Eastern clubs is already building. A return to Atletico Madrid has been mooted, while Barcelona are also reportedly monitoring the situation. Saudi Arabian clubs have likewise been linked with a potential move.

As Arsenal continue to navigate a crucial phase of their campaign both domestically and in Europe, the decision regarding Partey's future - shaped in no small part by Andrea Berta - will be one of several key calls that could define the club's transfer strategy.

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta holds key to Thomas Partey's Gunners future