Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed his desire for midfielder Thomas Partey to extend his stay at the club beyond the current summer transfer window.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal's final Premier League fixture against Southampton on Sunday, Arteta emphasized the Ghanaian international's importance to the team.

"Yes, I would like Thomas Partey to stay and sign new deal," Arteta stated. "Consistency-wise, it's been his best season. I think the way he has played, performed, his availability has been exceptional and he is a really important player for us."

Partey's current contract with Arsenal is set to expire at the end of this season, making him a free agent from July 1 if no new agreement is reached. The 31-year-old midfielder has reportedly ruled out the possibility of leaving the North London club this summer.

Since joining Arsenal from Spanish LaLiga side Atletico Madrid in 2020, Partey has established himself as a key figure in Arteta's squad. However, his contract situation has attracted interest from several clubs, including Barcelona and his former team Atletico Madrid.

According to reports, contract negotiations between Arsenal and Partey have been ongoing for several months as the club looks to secure the midfielder's services for the foreseeable future.

Arteta's comments highlight the midfielder's improved reliability this season, with Partey enjoying his most consistent campaign in an Arsenal shirt since his arrival. His performances have been crucial in Arsenal's push for silverware this season.

As the Gunners prepare for their final match of the Premier League season against Southampton, securing Partey's future appears to be among the club's priorities heading into the summer transfer window.