Thomas Partey to lead player exits at Atlético Madrid?

Atletico Madrid are facing their biggest challenge of the Diego Simeone era ahead of a summer which is set to see an overhaul of their playing squad.

Lucas Hernandez’s €80m transfer to Bayern Munich is likely to be the first of a series of exits from the Wanda Metropolitano this summer.

A more significant blow could be the exit of Thomas Partey who has been liked to a move to English Premiership with Arsenal, Manchester United and Man City reportedly interested.

The 25-year-old has established himself as one of the best holding midfielders in La Liga and has become a key cog in Diego Simeone’s team.

Despite persistent rumours that the midfielder could be on his way out of the Wanda Metropolitano, Spanish newspaper ?AS have claimed that the ?Atlético coaching staff consider Thomas to be essential to their plans for the future.

Partey is being thought of by Simeone as someone to build the club around, and despite being mindful of interest from other clubs across Europe, have maintained a firm stance over his future.

The Ghanaian international meanwhile, has a €50 million (£43m) release clause in his deal with Atletico which runs until 2023.

Man City certainly have the financial clout to pull off such a deal, but Arsenal have struggled in the market in recent times, most notably being restricted to loan signings during the January window.

Simeone is hopeful he will remain at the club for the foreseeable future, but his resolve could be tested if a formal bid is launched when the market reopens. Captain Diego Godin appears almost certain to leave on a free transfer this summer after nine seasons at Atleti, with widespread reports that he has already agreed terms with Italian giants Inter.

Experienced full-backs Filipe Luis and Juanfran Torres are both out of contract this summer too and neither are yet to agree new deals, with at least one likely to depart.

Stefan Savic has had a high-profile fallout with renowned fitness coach Alberto Ortega, while there have also been reports that Santiago Arias – signed just last summer – could be sold if the right offer comes in.

Yet other players also appear likely to depart this summer. Midfielder duo Rodri (€70m) and Saul Niguez have all been linked with moves to the Premier League, while Atleti are also said to be prepared to sell striker Diego Costa should an offer come in from the Chinese Super League.

Rumours have also emerged linking Antoine Griezmann to Barcelona again