Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has dropped a major hint that Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey could be in line for a shock new contract at the club, despite earlier speculation linking him with an exit this summer.

Partey, whose current deal runs out at the end of the season, has battled through a challenging spell marred by injuries but has recently enjoyed a resurgence in form. His performances have become increasingly influential as the Gunners chase silverware on multiple fronts, including a historic run in the UEFA Champions League.

During his pre-match press conference on Friday, Arteta was asked if progress had been made on Partey’s contract situation. “Yes, there is progress with all the players,” Arteta replied. “I'll leave that to [sporting director] Andrea [Berta] and the club to decide and to talk about.”

Pressed further on whether Arsenal’s intention is to keep the 31-year-old Ghana international, Arteta responded, “The intention is very clear. I'll leave that to Andrea and the club to take a step forward.”

The comments have raised eyebrows, considering Partey’s name has featured prominently in transfer speculation, including reports of interest from Saudi Arabia and a possible return to Atlético Madrid, the club he left to join Arsenal in a £45 million deal in October 2020.

Despite those links, Arteta’s remarks suggest the club could be preparing to reward Partey with an extension, recognising his influence and experience in the heart of midfield, especially during the latter part of the current campaign.

Partey’s yellow card in Arsenal’s emphatic midweek Champions League win at the Santiago Bernabéu was the only blot on an otherwise flawless display. The Gunners dismantled defending champions Real Madrid 5-1 on aggregate to reach the semi-finals for the first time since 2009. However, the booking means Partey will be suspended for the first leg of the semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.

Commenting on how his side will cope without the Ghanaian, Arteta said: “We have a few options and we're not going to give anything away. It was a night for the club that was great and that's it. The best ones are still ahead and to come. We all have a big ambition and big objectives and we are in the right direction. But the next steps are going to be tough and we're going to have to be at our best.”

Arsenal face Ipswich Town on Sunday in a crucial Premier League clash that could influence the title race. A defeat could hand the championship to Liverpool, while Ipswich themselves face relegation if they fail to secure a result at Portman Road.

The Gunners will be without Jorginho (rib injury) and Riccardo Calafiori (knee), although the Italian defender is hopeful of returning in time for the PSG tie on 29 April.

As the season heads into its defining weeks, Partey’s experience may yet prove pivotal — and if Arteta’s words are anything to go by, his future at the Emirates may not be as uncertain as once thought.