Ghanaian midfielder, Thomas Partey joined Arsenal on transfer deadline day from Spanish La Liga side Athletico Madrid but the player's father has confirmed Chelsea were interested in his son.

The London club triggered the central midfielder's contract with Athletico Madrid which had a release clause of 50 million euros.

Partey had been the priority target for Arsenal all summer but failed to negotiate with Athletico Madrid about a  fee as the rojiblancos did not want to loose their prized asset.

He has penned a long-term deal with the North London side and becomes the fourth signing after Willian, Gabriel and goalkeeper Runar Alex Runarsson.

The Ghana international came through the Atletico youth ranks since 2012 and went on to make 188 appearances, scoring 16 goals and assisting a further 12.

According to the players father Mr Jacob Partey, West London side Chelsea were keen on signing his son before he joined Arsenal.

“We actually weren't disturbed by anything because we hoped a bigger team will come for Partey," he told Joy FM.

“We were aware of the [other teams that were interested]: Juventus, Chelsea and so forth. So about all these we knew God was with us.”

"From that minute we started to dance to 'Party after Party'."

Partey senior admitted he was very busy after the news his son was joining Arsenal.

"It wasn't easy! I wondered if I was the Vice President," he said.

"The calls were successive from FM stations and others but I made sure to respond to all and my wife prepared some banku and okro soup for our celebration."

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