Dutch D
Well-Known Member & FPL Champion 19/20
I understand that and I agree with you on both players. Partey is a beast, would love to have him in the squad.It isn't just Partey's size, his work rate, strength, size and athleticism all go into one. He is a champions league level ball carrying, ball winning box to box central midfielder. A true beast.
Buendia is currently a small playmaker for a relegated side. The difference is stark. We are trying to balance out our team and specifically our midfield. Arteta has said he wants physical dominance and presence, hence why we are after Partey and Aouar. Buendia would be a good backup for Aouar mind you.
I was working with the assumption that we couldn't get both if we sign a star attacker as well. I would be bummed out more if we missed out on Aouar (who will have a lot of suitors next year I reckon) than if we miss out on Partey. For Partey we could get Zakaria/Laimer/Sangare next year, but I see no other creative cm who could be available (assuming Ødegaard becomes a feature at RM).
It's a trade-off but in that scenario I'd rather rely on the added physicality of Gabriel, Saliba and AMN (as a starter this season) for a year. Already a big improvement without signing a new midfielder.