Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey has been told to snub a move to Arsenal this summer, by the Black Stars Coach Charles Kwabla Akonnor.

Ghana international Partey, who has a buy-out clause of £45million, has emerged as one of Arsenal’s top targets ahead of the summer transfer window.

Gunners gaffer Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his squad at the Emirates at the end of the season and Partey, who has made more 150 appearances for Atletico, is highly-rated.

The 26-year-old is keen to join Arsenal but has been told to stay at Atletico by Akonno who also captained the Black Stars during his playing days.

Appearing as a guest on Starr FM’s Starr Chat with Bola Ray, C.K. Akonnor was asked whether he would advise the player to consider a move to Arsenal.

He responded that Partey moving to Arsenal will be a step down the ladder as he would miss out on the UEFA Champions League, a competition the Gunners have struggled to compete in in the last 5-6 years.

“I wouldn’t want Thomas Partey to move to Arsenal because with Athletico Madrid , he’ll always play in the Champions League”, he said.

” It will be difficult for Arsenal FC to qualify for the Champions League so I would edge him to stay in Madrid,” Akonnor added.