Thomas Partey's father claims he waited for 'bigger team' Arsenal

Thomas Partey waited for Arsenal to make their move him on deadline day because he wanted to move to a bigger team, claims his father.

The 27-year-old completed a deadline day move to Mikel Arteta's side from Atletico Madrid last week after they triggered his £45m release clause.

Though Jacob Partey admits there was interest from Chelsea and Juventus, he says his son wanted to help Arsenal back into the Champions League.

He told My Joy Online: 'We actually weren't disturbed by anything because we hoped a bigger team will come for Partey.

'We were aware of the [other teams that were interested]: Juventus, Chelsea and so forth. So through all of this we knew God was with us. From that minute we started to dance to "Party after Party".

'What I [noticed] was that he was willing to play where there is Champions League [football] but [I suggested to him that] can't he be where there is no Champions League and help them get into the Champions League?'

'My advice to him was irrespective of the big move, he has to keep training seriously and not lose focus. Not chase ladies so he doesn't flop! He was very receptive of that.'

Partey is currently on international duty with Ghana as he waist to link up with his new team-mates, but the midfielder took to Twitter last week to send a message to the Arsenal supporters ahead of his debut season in England.

The Ghanaian said: 'Hi guys, thanks so much for the love and for the message I have received. I can't wait to be part of you guys, I can't wait to join the team.

'It's a great feeling to be part of a family like this. Thanks so much to everyone for the love, I feel so grateful and I feel so amazed to be part of you. I can't wait to join you guys.

'And don't forget, no Thomas, No Partey!'