Former Arsenal striker, Alan Smith has urged the head coach, Mikel Arteta to sign Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders as a replacement for Thomas Partey, whose contract is set to expire next summer.
Partey has become a key figure for the Gunners in the ongoing campaign.
Despite the improved performances by the 31-year-old, Smith believes that Partey athleticism is declining and has identified Reijnders as a potential replacement.
"I think Arteta is looking at Tijjani Reijnders because players like Thomas Partey don't seem capable of what they used to do athletically and can't cover the pitch as they once did," Smith said.
Smith also emphasised the importance of continuous squad improvement.
"Arsenal have spent a lot of money, but if they've got the funds, you just want to keep improving the squad," he added.
Despite Smith's comments, there is no indication that Partey's future will be resolved soon and Arteta remains calm and focused on the situation.
Thomas Partey has so far made a total of 16 appearances for Arsenal in the ongoing season with two goals to his credit.
Having missed their 5-2 win against West Ham over the weekend, Partey is expected to return to the squad as they host Manchester United on Wednesday night at the Emirates Stadium.
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