Arsenal move for Christian Norgaard analysed as critics' complaints over Thomas Partey crumble

Arsenal have made an opening offer for Brentford midfielder Christian Norgaard, football.london understands. Talks are continuing between the clubs are they look to find a resolution with the player hopeful of a switch to the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal have been in discussions over the renewal of Thomas Partey’s contract but these talks have so far been unsuccessful with the player set to leave with his current deal at an end. The club have secured the services of Martin Zubimendi who is due to join the club from Real Sociedad in a deal just north of his release clause, with Andrea Berta negotiating more favourable terms to free up funds for additional summer spending.

Norgaard has been one of the Premier League’s most underrated players since his promotion with the Bees in 2021. Now 31, the club would be adding an experienced head, thought to be a conscious choice with Partey’s seniority being lost.

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The general feeling from those critical of the move for Norgaard is a complaint that he is not pushing the needle for Arsenal this summer. Replacing Partey with a player as good or better has already been completed by the club with the arrival of Zubimendi.

Replacing Jorginho with a better player would then represent the needle moving forward. Norgaard, the second defensive midfield signing of the summer, does just that.

When looking at the Dane’s defensive numbers, Partey only beats him in tackles per 90, and it is close (2.63 > 2.52). When it comes to interceptions per 90 (1.56 > 1.15), blocks per 90 (1.66 > 0.97), clearances (2.23 > 1.56), and aerial duels won per 90 (1.56 > 0.85) Norgaard has every single one in his favour.

But playing in number six for Arsenal is far more than just making tackles and interceptions. The role requires a level of passing ability that drives the team forward, becomes the link in the middle third, and is imperative for transitions.

Looking at the work of football data scientist and recruitment analyst, The Football Economist’s work on destructive ball progressors, Norgaard is shining brightly. For reference, destroying relates to duel-winning and defensive work ethic.

The Football Economist in response to links between Arsenal and Norgaard commented: “He was excellent all season. Damsgaard became the popular shout for 'most underrated PL player', but Norgaard was the real answer.”

High praise, and rightly so. Norgaard has amassed 87 appearances for Brentford over the last three seasons, his availability stands out which for a club like Arsenal is important where Partey’s reliability and attendance have been anything but until this season just gone.

For the fee being discussed, this seems a no-brainer for the Gunners. Quick to act with Partey exiting and finding a player who will help them improve on what they had regarding Jorginho and build on what is coming in Zubimendi, the focus can then continue with the forward line.