BREAKING: Saudi Clubs are working to convince Mikel Arteta’s most important player to join them- Player already agreed personal terms without telling Arsenal- Huge bid to be submitted to Arsenal in coming days- Player to earn a very ‘fat’ salary as well

Saudi Arabian journalist Nawaf Al-Aqeel reports that according to his information, a Saudi club is closing an agreement with Thomas Partey on personal terms for a potential transfer.

This is potentially a significant development, with previous reports suggesting Partey had informed interested clubs in Saudi Arabia that he wasn’t considering a move to the country.

The midfielder reportedly preferred a move to Juventus if he left Arsenal, with the Serie A side keen and initial conversations taking place.

But it was clarified at the time that this was only the current situation, and it was one that could change if the Juventus move didn’t progress.

Partey was set to hold talks with Arsenal once he returned from holiday, which he now has.

The outcome of those conversations isn’t known, but the Gunners are understood to be open to selling him for a suitable offer.

Arsenal are yet to receive any formal bids, despite the reports of outside interest, but James Benge claims Al-Nassr were prepared to offer €30m (£25.6m).

Other reports suggested Arsenal would only consider bids in excess of £30m.

Sources in Italy had claimed Juventus would be looking to do a deal for a figure in the region of €18-20m (£15.4-£17.1m).

That’s still a pretty significant valuation gap, at best around £13m shy of Arsenal’s asking price.

In terms of potential replacements, Arsenal have now agreed a deal for Declan Rice, and they also have an interest in Romeo Lavia.