Barcelona have “concrete interest” in bringing Arsenal star back to La Liga | OneFootball

Barcelona have started to make preparations for the summer transfer window, with sporting director Deco drawing up potential shortlists of signing targets. It will not be an overly busy off-season for the Catalans, but the idea is for a few additions to be made to Hansi Flick’s first team squad.

Deco himself is eyeing a left winger signing, while Flick has also asked him to sign a new right-back, which would allow Hector Fort to be sent on loan for the 2025-26 season. Several other positions are also being considered, but the one that Barcelona are not expected to touch in midfield, given that they already have Marc Casado, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez and Pablo Torre as options in the centre of the park.

However, de Jong’s possible departure could see Barcelona enter the market for a replacement, although given their well-documented financial woes, the likelihood is that they will want to bring in a low-cost option – and this is where Thomas Partey enters the equation.

Thomas Partey will soon be a free agent

According to CaughtOffside, Barcelona have a “concrete interest” in Partey, whose Arsenal contract is due to expire at the end of the season. At this stage, he does not appear likely to sign a renewal, which opens the door for a move away from the Premier League side in the summer.

Partey has had a strong season for Arsenal, having been one of their most dependable players in recent months. His signing as a free agent would be solid for most clubs, and alongside Barcelona, Juventus are also believed to hold an interest.

Partey has experience of La Liga, having previously played for Atletico Madrid. However, it would be a very big surprise if he returned to Spanish football with Barcelona, as the Catalans simply have no need to sign any midfielders, even if de Jong leaves (which looks unlikely at this stage).