According to a source, Barcelona is “in talks” with an Arsenal player about a surprise summer transfer.
Arsenal did not take home any hardware from the previous season and finished second to Liverpool in the Premier League.
In order to catch up to Liverpool, who have already bolstered their roster ahead of the upcoming campaign with the acquisition of Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen, Mikel Arteta intends to bring in fresh talent.
However, Arteta may lose a major player before the 2025–2026 season.
Barca has ”started conversations’ with Thomas Partey’s representatives over a free transfer this summer, according to The Sun.
Partey has not yet signed a new contract with the Emirates, and his current one expires at the end of June.
Partey, who joined the team in October 2020 after joining for £45 million from Atletico Madrid, has publicly stated that he wants to keep him.
The’slow-moving’ and ‘complicated’ nature of negotiations has reportedly intrigued Barca, who want to bolster their midfield without breaking the bank.
Hansi Flick, a huge admirer of the 31-year-old, views him as a “cut-price fix” for Barca’s midfield.
The Ghanaian international has developed a close bond with Arsenal manager Arteta and wants to remain at the club.
However, he wants an arrangement that doesn’t require him to accept a big pay decrease.
Partey is anticipated to receive a short-term extension offer from Arsenal.
The team reportedly wants to offer him a one-year contract with an optional one-year extension.
When asked about Partey’s future last month, Arteta referred to him as a “really important player.”
“In regards to Thomas, consistency-wise, it’s been his best season,” he stated. “I think the way he’s played, performed, his availability has been exceptional, and he’s a really important player for us.”
Atletico Madrid and Saudi Arabian clubs are also showing interest in Partey.
The first’serious move’ to hire him this summer, however, was made by Barca.
Last season, he made 52 appearances, 35 of which were in the Premier League.
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