Saudi Arabia's PIF reignite talks with Arsenal star to stop Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce from sealing deal: Reports 

Jose Mourinho may reportedly miss out on bringing Arsenal star Thomas Partey to the Turkish Super Lig with Saudi Arabian clubs back on the scene. The Ghanian midfielder could depart the Emirates this summer with just a year left on his contract.

TEAMTalk reports that Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund officials have restarted talks with Partey. They want to prevent the Gunners man from heading to Turkiye.

Partey, 31, endured an injury-ridden 2023-24 campaign and only made 16 appearances across competitions. His contract expires in June 2025 and Arsenal aren't expected to offer him an extension.

Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce are both interested in Partey. If he joins Sari Kanaryalar, he could link up with Mourinho at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium.

The interest from Turkiye has led to the PIF accelerating their pursuit of the 47-cap Ghana international. They have contacted the player, not Arsenal, to settle contract terms and let him decide which Saudi Pro League club he wants to join.

Saudi giants Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli were looking to sign Partey last year but failed to secure his signature. Serie A heavyweights Juventus were also in the mix, but they've since cooled their interest.

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"He would relish another shot" - Pundit urges Arsenal to replace Thomas Partey with Albert Sambi Lokonga

Albert Sambi Lokonga could be given a fresh start at the Emirates.

Italian pundit Gabriele Marcotti has told Arsenal they should give Albert Sambi Lokonga a fresh opportunity if Partey departs. The Belgian midfielder spent last season on loan at Luton Town and fared well despite their relegation.

Lokonga, 24, faces an uncertain future once his loan expires. He failed to gain Arteta's trust during his Emirates spell. He joined the Gunners from Anderlecht in 2021 for €17.5 million.

Marcotti feels Lokonga can provide energy in the middle of the park and would be eager to prove his worth. He told ESPN:

"I think Lokonga can give you the energy. He’s already their player, it won’t take him long [to adapt], I think he would relish another shot at the club."

Lokonga appeared 19 times across competitions last season, posting one goal and three assists. It was a fine campaign for the one-cap Belgium international, who has two years left on his contract.

The Belgian central midfielder made 39 appearances for Arsenal before loan spells at Crystal Palace and Luton. He's expected to depart the Emirates but could be a cost-effective Partey replacement if a U-turn is made and Arteta fails to make a signing.