Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has urged the club to sign Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders as a replacement for Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey, whose contract is set to expire next summer.

Despite Partey's impressive performances, including his recent display against Sporting CP, which earned praise from Arteta, Smith believes the Ghanaian's athleticism is declining and has identified Reijnders as a potential replacement.

"I think Arteta is looking at Tijjani Reijnders because players like Thomas Partey don't seem capable of what they used to do athletically and can't cover the pitch as they once did," Smith said.

Smith also emphasised the importance of continuous squad improvement.

"Arsenal have spent a lot of money, but if they've got the funds, you just want to keep improving the squad," he added.

Despite Smith's comments, there is no indication that Partey's future will be resolved soon and Arteta remains calm and focused on the situation.