FC Barcelona is reportedly targeting Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey in a significant move that could see him join the Spanish club for free this summer.
Sources indicate that Barcelona`s representatives have initiated discussions with the Ghanaian player`s camp regarding a potential free transfer, as Partey`s contract situation at Arsenal`s Emirates Stadium remains uncertain.
The 31-year-old`s contract expires at the end of June, and despite manager Mikel Arteta publicly expressing a desire for him to stay, a new agreement with Arsenal has not yet been reached.
The protracted and complicated contract talks have alerted other clubs, including Barcelona and Partey`s former side Atletico Madrid, both keen to strengthen their midfield options on a budget.
According to insiders, Barcelona sees Partey as an economical solution to reinforce their midfield, with their new manager, Hansi Flick, reportedly a keen admirer of the player from his time at Atletico Madrid.
Since joining Arsenal for £45 million in 2020, the Ghana international has faced numerous injury issues in North London. However, when available, he has consistently demonstrated his effectiveness and dominance in the midfield area.
Despite injury struggles, he had a solid season, featuring in 35 league matches as Arsenal challenged Liverpool for the Premier League title.
It is understood that Partey`s preference would be to remain in North London, partly due to his good rapport with Mikel Arteta.
Furthermore, Partey and his family, who recently welcomed a new child and are settled in London, value stability and continuity.
Nevertheless, he is seeking a contract that maintains his current salary level, recognizing that this potential new deal could be the last significant one of his career.
Turning 32 this month, Partey is aiming for terms that acknowledge his importance and contribution to the team.
Barcelona continues to face constraints under Financial Fair Play regulations, making the prospect of acquiring a high-calibre player without a transfer fee particularly appealing.
While clubs in Saudi Arabia have also shown interest, Barcelona is reported to have made the initial significant approach and is actively pursuing the transfer.
A source close to Partey commented, “Thomas deeply respects Arsenal and enjoys life in London, but he is also aware of his value and is seeking a contract that truly reflects his position within the club.”
Should Partey depart, it would open up a midfield spot in Arsenal`s squad for the upcoming season.
Concurrently, Arsenal is reportedly keen on signing Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer and is prepared to activate his £51 million release clause.
Spanish news outlet Cope suggests that senior figures at Arsenal anticipate a quick conclusion to the Zubimendi transfer.
It is claimed that personal terms and necessary documentation have already been settled, along with the agreement on the payment structure for the player`s release clause.
Zubimendi is highly rated by Arteta, who reportedly convinced him of the North London project previously.
This potential signing marks the beginning of what is expected to be a significant summer transfer window for Arsenal, with reports suggesting the club is preparing to invest around £200 million to strengthen the squad and challenge for the Premier League title next season.
