Thomas Partey is officially an Arsenal player.The Ghanaian midfielder's move to the Premier League was confirmed late last night in one of the most unexpected 'deadline day' transfers of all time.Yesterday morning, Arsenal fans had little to no hope of bringing in a marquee signing following the club's failed pursuit of Lyon's Houssem Aouar.But early in the afternoon, reports surfaced that the Gunners were willing to activate Partey's £45m release clause after scouting the 27-year-old for around two years.By 11:15pm, the medicals were complete, the contract was freshly inked and the deal had been officially announced by both clubs - funny how quick things progress in the final hours, eh?
Arsenal fans across social media were jubilant at the signing of Partey, as they know the Ghanaian's arrival has the potential to take Mikel Arteta's team to the next level.
A combative midfielder blessed with great composure, skill, footballing intelligence and a keen eye for a pass, the Gunners - after over a decade - may finally have found their Patrick Vieira replacement.
So to celebrate the beginning of 'Partey Time' in north London, we're going to revisit the Ghanian's most iconic performance to date against Liverpool in last season's Champions League.
Atletico shocked the world by beating Jurgen Klopp's side 3-2 at Anfield and Partey was Diego Simeone's driving force throughout. You can watch the midfield maestro's full highlights from the game below.
Now, we don't agree with BT Sport's use of the word 'dominated' here.
After all, it was Liverpool who dominated the ball that night, but Partey's contribution in the face of an onslaught from a world-class opponent was simply stunning.
He was persistently in the right place when Atletico's backs were against the wall, while his simple, yet effective passing helped the Spanish side deliver swift counterpunches.
Partey really is the definition of a 'complete midfielder' and his work under Simeone in the Spanish capital will all but certainly provide Arsenal with an extra edge in big games going forward.
The Gunners face Manchester City at the Etihad after the international break, the perfect stage for Partey to show the world why £45m for a player of his ilk is an absolute bargain.