Arsenal could be making Rice progress as Arteta allows Partey to explore Saudi Arabia move

Arsenal may be making progress in the pursuit of Declan Rice amid reports Thomas Partey has been given permission to talk to clubs in Saudi Arabia.

A host of stars, including the likes of Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo, have made mega-money moves to the burgeoning Saudi Pro League in recent months, and an Arsenal midfielder could be the next high-profile star to transfer there.

According to 90min, the Gunners have given Partey permission to explore a transfer to a club in Saudi Arabia this summer.

Indeed, Partey, who was once described as “world-class” by former Arsenal player Kevin Campbell, played a central role in the Gunners’ Premier League title challenge last term.

However, manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu Gaspar are set to make key changes to the squad.

Arsenal's hierarchy is allegedly disappointed with the Ghanian’s performance levels towards the end of the season when the club surrendered a healthy lead at the summit to Manchester City.

And Arsenal have now reportedly given Partey the green light to assess offers from Saudi clubs.

Partey departure to pave way for Rice?

According to the Telegraph Arsenal would only be willing to cash in on the Partey provided they can find a suitable replacement.

In turn, reports the club have given permission for Partey to explore a Saudi Arabia move could suggest they are making progress in their pursuit of Rice.

The Gunners' opening offer for Rice was rejected by West Ham while they reportedly face competition from treble-winners Manchester City.

However, Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg claimed Arsenal are “very confident” they will secure a deal for both Rice and Chelsea’s Kai Havertz, with the club in “advanced” negotiations with both.

Granit Xhaka is another Arsenal midfielder expected to leave, with the Swiss international having been linked to a £13million move to Bayer Leverkusen.