Thomas Partey has been one of Arsenal's most consistent performers in the first half of the 2024/25 season.

The 31-year-old has featured 25 times for the Gunners so far this campaign, contributing two goals and two assists. More importantly for Mikel Arteta, Partey has stayed injury-free for most of the season and has been included in every matchday squad bar one.

With Partey playing such a prominent role for Arsenal, it may be a concern for some supporters that the Ghanaian is set to leave for free next summer. The former Atletico Madrid man's current contract expires at the end of the season and the midfielder will be free to talk to other clubs from January 1.

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"We will have the right time to discuss about the situation," Arteta said when asked about Partey's contract situation last month. "He is showing consistency at the highest level, again because his availability and the way that he feels physically is allowing him to do that, and I am very pleased with that."

With Barcelona reportedly among a handful of clubs said to be interested in signing Partey when his deal expires next summer, it could be a vital month or so in terms of the midfielder's future. Below, football.london's writers have their say on Partey and what Arsenal should do.

Tom Canton

At the end of the season it is time to say goodbye to Thomas Partey. Yes, he has been a very good player for the Gunners this season but as with players like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mesut Ozil, contracts need to be given to players for what they're going to do and not what they have done.

Nothing is guaranteed, as ever, but what is very likely is that the injuries Partey has suffered could come back at a moment's notice. He is one of the most well-paid players in the squad too and to lose him would be a big blow to the side whether they have a replacement or not.

I would rather give a player like Jorginho a one-year deal. A player on lower wages, more reliable in terms of fitness and has not shown any signs of diminishing returns while also being a very valuable member of the dressing room for his off-field contributions.

Sam Truelove

This time last year I would have probably given you a different answer. Thomas Partey was struggling with injuries, was in poor form and couldn't hold down a regular spot in the Arsenal starting XI. Things couldn't be more different this season, however.

The midfielder has been one of the Gunners' best players. He's been available for every game bar one, and has shown his versatility by playing at right-back. He's stepped up when Arteta has needed him most.

With Jorginho's contract also expiring next summer, I feel like the north Londoners must try and extend Partey's deal. He will be 32 in June but a fresh two-year deal would suit both parties, I think. Arsenal get a top quality midfielder for another two years while Partey can extend his time at a club challenging for major silverware. Get it done, Arsenal.

Matty Hewitt

Thomas Partey has probably been one of Arsenal's most underrated signings in recent years and his performances this season have only highlighted his importance to Mikel Arteta.

His versatility and nous makes him a key component of the Gunners' squad. While I understand the argument for aging players to be moved on, you can't replace experience.

As mentioned above, a two-year deal would be the perfect extension in my eyes - as long as the finances make sense. With Jorginho also out of contract this summer, and if I had to pick one or the other, Partey would be my preferred option.

Josh Holland

Partey's turnaround in the last 12 months has been a credit to him. As covered above, this time last year, I don't think many would have called for him to stick around. However, that isn't the case now.

To me, it comes down to him or Jorginho. If it's a decision between Partey or the Italian, I would say Partey stays. His versatility makes him a valuable asset and being two years younger means there should be plenty more in the legs.

He's still a quality midfielder and has proven that this season. Kai Havertz's mixed role in the team means the Ghana international provides the perfect deputy to allow Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard to push further forward. I imagine that's where Arteta sees him playing.

Two years would be the perfect extension for both parties.