Thomas Partey father confirms Atletico Madrid midfielder has held Arsenal talks

Thomas Partey's father has revealed that the Atletico Madrid midfielder has been in talks over a summer transfer to Arsenal.

The Gunners have reportedly made signing the Ghana international their top priority as they seek a new holding midfielder for next season.

Partey is believed to have a £44m release clause in his contract, which Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has urged the club to trigger.

Discussions were said to have started earlier this month, and Partey's father Jacob has now confirmed as much.

"I called my son after hearing the rumours and he told me that the rumours are true," he told Tru FM.

"He told me they are holding talks between him and Arsenal. It all depends on the offer Atletico are demanding.

"If he goes to Arsenal fine, they have a lot supporters in Ghana."

Partey has made 174 appearances for Atleti since the start of the 2015-16 season and is under contract at the Wanda Metropolitano until 2023.