Barcelona target Arsenal midfielder for free transfer | OneFootball

Barcelona are reportedly eyeing Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey as a potential free transfer option for next summer, according to Mundo Deportivo and other sources.

The Ghanaian international, who is set to become a free agent in June 2025, has attracted significant interest due to his experience and the value he could add to Barcelona’s midfield.

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 21: Thomas Partey of Arsenal in action during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Arsenal FC at Selhurst Park on August 21, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

The 31-year-old Thomas Partey has been a key figure for Arsenal since his move from Atlético Madrid in October 2020, when he hasn’t been injured.

This season, he has scored one goal in the three full Premier League matches he has played.

Despite his contributions, Arsenal’s decision on whether to offer him a new contract remains uncertain due to his age, injury history, and other factors. With the recent arrival of Mikel Merino and the expected shift in Declan Rice’s role to a more defensive position, Partey’s prominence at Arsenal is likely to diminish and there has not even been any rumours around the club giving him a new deal.

Manchester City’s Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson (R) refuses to return the ball to Arsenal’s Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey after conceding a goal during the English Premier League football match between Manchester City and Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, north west England, on April 26, 2023. (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)

Barcelona’s interest comes at a time when they are reassessing their midfield options.

Having secured the signings of Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor this summer, and with a focus on integrating younger players like Marc Bernal and Marc Casadó, Barcelona had initially not planned to strengthen their midfield.

However, the serious knee injury suffered by Bernal has forced them to reconsider their options. Partey’s experience in La Liga, having previously played for Mallorca, Almeria, and Atlético Madrid, positions him as a valuable asset for the Catalan club according to the Spanish press.

Partey’s potential free transfer has not only attracted Barcelona but also piqued the interest of other major clubs. Juventus are reportedly prepared to offer him a three-year contract, while Atlético Madrid is also considering re-signing the midfielder.

In addition, Saudi Arabian clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Ahli have emerged as potential suitors, with the capability to offer lucrative financial packages.

As the January transfer window approaches, Partey’s future remains a subject of speculation.

Barcelona, Juventus, Atlético Madrid, and Saudi Arabian clubs will all be monitoring the situation closely, aiming to secure the experienced midfielder’s services at no cost in the summer or a reduced fee in the winter.