Thomas Partey ignored interest from Juventus and Chelsea to sign for ‘bigger club’ – Father reveals

Atletico Madrid' Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey controls the ball during the Spanish league football match SD Huesca against Club Atletico de Madrid at the El Alcoraz stadium in Huesca on September 30, 2020. (Photo by Pau BARRENA / AFP)

Thomas Partey's father claims his son was waiting for a "bigger team" to come in for him amid interest from Juventus and Chelsea.

The Ghana international completed a £45million move to Arsenal from Atletico Madrid on deadline day after months of speculation.

And it seems Arsenal were Partey's first choice too, despite Juventus and Chelsea both being involved in this season's Champions League - something his new employers couldn't offer him.

Discussing the interest from the other two sides, the midfielder's father, Jacob Partey, told My Joy Online: "We actually weren’t disturbed by anything because we hoped a bigger team will come for Partey.

"We were aware of the [other teams that were interested]: Juventus, Chelsea and so forth. So through all of this we knew God was with us. From that minute we started to dance to ‘Party after Party’."

While both Juventus and Chelsea were seemingly keen on landing Partey's signature, it appears neither club lodged a bid, enabling The Gunners to swoop at the last minute.

And even though Arsenal will be taking part in the Europa League this season, that actually proved to be a bonus where Partey's family were concerned.

Thomas Partey and Barcelona's Lionel Messi in a past La Liga match [COURTESY]

“What I [noticed] was that he was willing to play where there is Champions League [football] but [I suggested to him that] can’t he be where there is no Champions League and help them get into the Champions League?" Jacob explained.

The tough-tackling midfielder could make his Arsenal debut at the weekend (Image: Getty Images)

Partey could now make his debut for Arsenal in their first match back after the international break when they make the trip to The Etihad to face Man City.

There is little doubt the 27-year-old will be a regular fixture in Mikel Arteta's starting XI once he gets up and running, but in the meantime his father shared some words of wisdom to ensure his big move proves to be a success.

“My advice to him was irrespective of the big move, he has to keep training seriously and not lose focus," Jacob added. "Not chase ladies so he doesn’t flop! He was very receptive of that."