Arsenal Transfers: Why Gunners Snubbed Sesko, Partey Finds New Club & Plot Big Changes Before Premier League Showdown with Man Utd

As Arsenal prepare to kick off their Premier League season with a high-stakes match against Manchester United, the club’s transfer window drama continues to make headlines. With only days to go, the Gunners are making strategic moves, some unexpected, that could shape their entire season. 

One of the biggest updates from North London is that Thomas Partey has officially left Arsenal. The midfielder, whose contract expired at the end of last season, is now set to join Villarreal in Spain.  

He had hoped to stay in the Champions League and, with Villarreal finishing fifth in La Liga, the Spanish side became an ideal new home for him. Arsenal fans had expected him to renew, especially since talks with the club went on for months. But in the end, no agreement was reached. 

Partey’s exit is just one part of the puzzle. According to multiple reports, Arsenal could offload up to five first-team players before the transfer window closes. Reiss Nelson is on Fulham’s radar, and with his £100,000-per-week salary, his exit could help free up funds. Another player potentially on the chopping block is Oleksandr Zinchenko, who earns £150,000 per week. 

Fabio Vieira, who hasn’t had many chances under Mikel Arteta, has attracted interest from West Ham. Meanwhile, Albert Sambi Lokonga has also been made available for transfer. The fifth name on the list is Leandro Trossard. Though Arsenal want to offer him a new contract, Borussia Dortmund have added him to their list of attacking targets. 

Perhaps the most intriguing story is the club’s decision to walk away from a deal for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko. Despite earlier interest, Arsenal pulled out of talks due to multiple red flags—or what ESPN described as “alarm bells.” First, Leipzig demanded a hefty transfer fee. Second, Sesko’s personal terms were considered too steep. And third, the club had serious concerns about the 21-year-old’s readiness to lead Arsenal’s attack under the pressure of the Premier League spotlight. 

Sesko, who scored 21 goals across all competitions last season, has only had two years playing in a top-five European league. Arsenal’s scouts reportedly questioned whether he had the mental strength and maturity to handle the role they needed him to play. 

Instead of pushing for Sesko, the club appears to be shifting attention to Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze. However, bringing Eze to the Emirates would mean even more players would need to leave. With Arteta already overseeing a squad reshuffle this summer, adding Eze could make the Gunners even more dynamic, but only if the club trims its roster further. 

Behind the scenes, it’s clear that Arteta and Edu are being careful. Rather than signing for hype, they’re looking for players who fit into the tactical puzzle. Sesko’s potential didn’t align with Arsenal’s immediate needs, especially with the club eyeing a Premier League title chase. 

The summer transfer strategy reflects how Arsenal are evolving: focused on quality over quantity, and cautious about making costly mistakes that could set the team back. As the new season approaches, the squad looks different, but that might be a good thing. 

With a powerful midfield rebuild, a leaner wage bill, and smarter recruitment decisions, Arsenal could be stronger than ever when they face off against Manchester United in just under two weeks. Fans will be watching closely, not only to see who starts, but who’s still at the club by then. 

Only time will tell if Arsenal’s summer shuffle pays off. But one thing is clear: the Gunners are not afraid to make bold moves to chase glory.