Former Ghanaian international Derek Boateng believes that Atletico Madrid star Thomas Partey will be making the wrong decision should he join Arsenal.

The holding midfielder is reported to be eyeing an exit from Atletico Madrid at the end of the season. He has been linked with several clubs but Arsenal appears to be the firm favourite to land his signature.

The Gunners, who are long-term admirers of the Ghana international, are reportedly ready to trigger his £43million release clause.

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SWIPE ⏩⏩ Everyone is wondering if @thomaspartey5 is leaving @atleti. If he is, @dboateng9 has a few words. 🔴 #JoySports #JoyNews #ghanafootball #thomaspartey22 #atleticomadrid #atleti

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Reacting to the issue on Joy FM, Derek Boateng urged Partey to make a decision which will make him happy but warned him not to sign for Arsenal.

According to Boateng, who played for the Black Stars at two World Cups, Arsenal is currently a downgrade to Atletico Madrid because of their lack of Champions League football.

Arsenal last played in Champions League two seasons ago. Their current standings in the Premier League season makes their chances of playing in the biggest European club competition seemingly bleak.

“He needs to be at a place where he will be happy, respected and get a lot of playing time. You can make all the money you want but if the coach doesn’t play you, you won’t be happy,” Boateng advised.

He added; “I will not advise him to move to Arsenal right now because he is a Champions League player and with the look of the Arsenal team right now, they are not ready with the kind of players they have and some are going to move.”

“They are playing very well but you can see the inexperience hurting them and with the way the Premier League is going right now, it is going to be really tough. If he wants to move, he has to move to a team that plays in the Champions League otherwise he will lose everything.”

Partey has been a key player for Diego Simeone’s men, since breaking into the first team in 2015. This season he has 42 appearances in all competitions and has mostly excelled in midfield.