As reported by The Sun, Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey’s father has recently revealed that the player might be keen on a move to the Premier League. Speaking to Enigye FM, Hon Adjiingo said: “I personally told him to move on, if he is not wanted at where he is right now. Because he might be wanted at somewhere else and so he will like to move to England if he gets the chance.”
This could be a massive boost for Manchester United, who were linked with a move for Partey earlier last month. However, the Red Devils could face stiff competition from league rivals Arsenal.
Thomas Partey’s mixed time at Atletico
Diego Simeone has transformed many fringe players into world-class individuals with his dynamic leadership in the past. And Partey has been no exception. A product of the Atleti youth academy, the Ghanaian rose to prominence last season, when his solidity in midfield made him a key component in the Atletico Madrid starting lineup. He made 33 league appearances during that corresponding season and followed that up with 32 in the recently concluded campaign.
But, his importance in the Atleti midfield has taken a massive hit following the emergence of Rodri. Indeed, the Spaniard has become as one of Europe’s most highly rated defensive midfielders after a tremendous debut campaign at the Wanda Metropolitano. As a result, Partey has been restricted to just over 2,000 minutes of league football during the 2018/19 campaign.
What can Partey offer to the table?
Partey is primarily known for his physicality and aggression that makes him an imposing presence in the centre of the pitch. He likes to hurry and hassle the opposition ball-carrier while he can also to cut off passing lanes – making him an ideal defensive midfielder. The 25-year-old most notably completed 2.1 tackles and 1.5 interceptions per game this past season. He also won an impressive 40 headed duels, which is quite remarkable for a midfielder.
But, Partey’s game is not restricted to only the defensive side of the game as he is an excellent passer of the ball. Although his passing is mostly limited to just short, vertical passes, the Ghanaian can keep things neat and tidy in midfield which is crucial for any defensive midfielder.
Should Manchester United make a move for Partey?
Manchester United have lacked a bonafide leader at the base of their midfield in the past couple of seasons. Serbian international Nemanja Matic has struggled with lack of consistency while the young Scott McTominay is not ready to take on the mantle of leading the United midfield next season.
Partey, in that regard, is an appealing option for the Red Devils. The Atletico Madrid star can offer a robust approach when it comes to pressing the opposition while his ability to win back possession will help United create more turnovers in midfield. He is also an impressive athlete, which serves as a crucial asset to Ole Gunnar-Solskjaer footballing philosophy.
Another key aspect of Partey’s deal is that the midfielder reportedly has a release clause of £43 million, which makes him relatively cheaper than other alternatives available on the market. Hence, he could be a smart piece of investments from the Premier League giants this summer.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
