Arsenal evening headlines as Partey transfer hint is spotted, Seaman makes Leno prediction

Here are the Arsenal evening headlines on Friday, April 24.

David Seaman in Bernd Leno backing

Former Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman has praised Bernd Leno since his arrival at the club, stating he can go on to be a “great goalkeeper”.

The Germany international does however need to improve on his decision-making, says Seaman.

Leno has proved consistent between the posts ever since his 2018 switch from Bayer Leverkusen to North London, establishing himself as Arsenal’s first-choice.

James Benge on Aubameyang's transfer fee, Thomas Partey and Saka's future

Speaking to the Handbrake Off Podcast, Seaman said: "With Leno I’m very confident, I think he needs a bit of work with crossing if I’m honest, he sometimes comes out for the cross when he doesn’t need to.

"I think he’s got the potential to be a great goalkeeper at Arsenal."

Seaman conceded that Leno does not have the same calibre of teammate playing in front of him as he did during his time as Arsenal’s No. 1.

Sokratis gives big hint on Partey future

Arsenal defender Sokratis hosted an Instagram Live session for supporters, giving away what could be a big hint towards the future of Atlético Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey.

Sokratis was asked by a fan to smile if Partey was signing for the club, which was met by a cheesy grin from the Greek defender.

Arsenal have been tracking Partey for some time and are keen to add him to Mikel Arteta’s ranks.

The Ghanaian is said to have a £43.5 million release clause in his Atlético contract – a fee which Arsenal might be able to justify paying.

Partey has been one of Europe’s best press-resistant midfielders this season, and is known as a hard-working player in Diego Simeone’s side.

Roy Keane on Mesut Özil pay dispute

Ex-Manchester United captain Roy Keane has weighed into the debate over Mesut Özil’s pay-cut dispute.

Keane stated that the onus to cut wages was not on players when clubs have “got a billionaire in the background.”

It comes after Arsenal announced a 12.5% pay cut with their first team, however Özil is one of three squad members yet to agree on this deal.

(David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Özil’s decision has prompted scrutiny from pundits and supporters of many clubs, but Keane is not one of his critics.

"I’m not sure how I would have dealt with it but I do have a lot of sympathy for the players out there," Keane said.

"I wouldn’t take a pay cut from anybody if I was at one of the bigger clubs."