Mikel Arteta confirms Thomas Partey will undergo MRI scan on injury

Mikel Arteta has revealed that Thomas Partey is set to undergo an MRI scan after being forced off through injury against Manchester City.

The midfielder started the FA Cup game against the Etihad Stadium on Friday but was withdrawn at half time, with Albert Sambi Lokonga replacing him in midfield.

Partey has been a vital part of an Arsenal side that are five points clear at the top of the Premier League table, but has a history of injury issues and his latest blow could spell disaster for the Gunners.

The Gunners boss (right) also refused to rule out replacing Partey in the transfer market

Arteta said after Friday’s game: ‘He had some discomfort and it was getting worse and worse.

‘He was uncomfortable to continue. (Saturday) or the day after he will have an MRI scan and see what he has.

‘We have at the moment the injury of Mo (Elneny). It is not possible to get him fit. Sambi has come in and has done well. It is true Thomas is a big influence and a big personality and in the second half we didn’t have him.’

The Spaniard refused to rule out the possibility of the club dipping into the transfer market to replace Partey and help solve his midfield injury crisis.

Midfielder Mohamed Elneny (centre) is currently missing from the squad with a long-term injury issue

Arsenal have had a £60million for Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo rejected by the Seagulls

Via the Evening Standard, he said: ‘We have some necessities and if something else is available, the club is willing to try to do it when it is reasonable and hopefully it’s a player that can improve our squad.’

Arsenal had a £60million bid rejected for Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo earlier this week, with Brighton trying to hold out for £80m. Chelsea have also had a bid rejected, worth £55million.

Caicedo appeared to beg Brighton to leave the club in a social media post on Friday evening, thanking the fans and board for their…