Arsenal Scramble to Keep Star Midfielder Amid Barcelona, PSG Interest | OneFootball

Paris Saint-Germain boast a deep midfield group, but size remains a concern. Fabian Ruiz is the tallest regular at 6-foot-2 (1.89 meters), with a noticeable dip in height across the rest of the unit.

Senny Mayulu, listed at 6 feet (1.83 meters), adds a bit of length, but beyond the 18-year-old, PSG lack a truly imposing presence in central midfield. That could lead the club to pursue a bigger body this summer—ideally someone who fits Luis Enrique’s possession-based approach without disrupting the team’s rhythm or fluidity.

Another option could be signing an experienced veteran to help stabilize the young core assembled over the past few transfer windows.

With that in mind, Arsenal insider Charles Watts recently reported that the Gunners have yet to open contract talks with Thomas Partey, whose deal runs out this summer. Barcelona, Juventus, and PSG are all reportedly monitoring the situation closely.

What’s the latest on Thomas Partey?

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Football Insider reported on Saturday, citing sources, that Arsenal are currently holding last-minute talks with Partey to resolve his future. The outlet claims that “talks are ongoing” between Arsenal and Partey, with the club now keen to keep hold of the veteran midfielder.

Arsenal have performed a U-turn on their stance, having initially been expected to let the 31-year-old leave on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Partey is currently settled at the club and open to signing a new two-year deal. However, the report adds that he is ready to explore other opportunities if they don’t reach an agreement, as interest from clubs abroad continues to grow.

Meanwhile, another report reveals Partey is eyeing a return to LaLiga, with Barcelona emerging as his top choice. The midfielder’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and according to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are among the clubs he would prefer to join.

The Spanish side have been monitoring his situation closely and view him as a potential bargain given the financial terms. It remains to be seen how things unfold — and whether Arsenal will be able to hold on to him.