‘Barcelona set to hijack Arsenal’s plan for Thomas Partey in blow to Mikel Arteta’
Barcelona have handed Arsenal a major stumbling block as the North London club hope to retain Thomas Partey.
The midfielder has made over 160 appearances for the Gunners since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2020.
Partey is out of contract this summer, but remains a key figure at Arsenal having made 35 Premier League appearances this season, notching four goals and two assists.
The Ghana international’s most recent goal for the North Londoners arrived in their 1-1 draw with Brentford on 12 April.
Barcelona want to sign Partey on a free transfer
Football Insider exclusively revealed that Arsenal were confident in handing Partey a new deal at the Emirates Stadium.
However, according to The Sun, Barcelona are keen to scupper those efforts and make a free transfer swoop for the 31-year-old.
Hansi Flick’s men have enjoyed a historic campaign, winning the domestic league and cup double, but the German is keen to bolster his midfield options ahead of next term.
Arsenal continue to monitor Rafael Leao
If Partey leaves North London in favour of joining Barcelona, the former Atletico Madrid man’s departure could dictate the Gunners’ transfer activity.
| Thomas Partey stats | Premier League 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 35 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 2 |
However, Arsenal are closing in on Martin Zubimendi, who has excelled in La Liga for Real Sociedad and could prove to be an adequate replacement for the Ghanaian.
But Arteta could be keen to add yet another midfielder to his ranks if Partey leaves, because Jorginho has already left the Emirates ahead of next term.
Meanwhile, Football Insider have exclusively reported that Arsenal are monitoring Rafael Leao’s situation, after the Portugal international scored 12 goals and created 11 assists for AC Milan this season.
Milan’s asking price for the winger remains the main stumbling block for the Emirates side, but he could prove to be a great acquisition for Arteta’s men if they can agree terms with the San Siro club.
Meanwhile, Arsenal remain interested in Benjamin Sesko as they look to sign a new striker and close the gap between themselves and Premier League champions Arsenal.