Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has called on the club's board to extend the contract of Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey.

Partey's contract at the club expires at the end of the season, but talks with his entourage have reportedly begun over the possibility of staying beyond this season.

The Ghana international has been a key figure in Arsenal's team this season, delivering consistently for the Gunners en route to making the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League.

While many had feared the Ghanaian could be shipped, Areta believes the 31-year-old deserves an extension.

"In regards to Thomas [Partey], consistency-wise, it’s been his best season," Arteta told the media at the presser ahead of their last game of the season.

"I think the way he’s played, performed, his availability has been exceptional, and he’s a really important player for us. Yeah [I want him to stay]." 

Partey is reportedly courting interest from a lot of clubs, including Juventus and Barcelona, while there is also interest from Saudi Arabia.