Barcelona are considering a January move for Thomas Partey, although there are doubts whether Arsenal are willing to let him leave.
According to Fichajes, Barcelona have added Thomas Partey to their list of midfielders ahead of the January window. The €50 million Arsenal star remains out with injury, but there is no clarity on whether the Gunners are open to letting him leave next month.
Mikel Arteta considers Thomas Partey integral to how Arsenal play and would view the midfielder as essential in his midfield puzzle. So far, the Gunners have had to make do without the Ghanaian for most of the season owing to his persistent injury problems.
Arsenal are hoping to have him back before the end of the year and will undoubtedly wish for him to keep fit for the remainder of the season. Depending on how injury-free he is, the Gunners will plan their January window, as reports suggest they want to sign a new midfielder.
Another connected story claimed Arsenal are open to selling Partey and signing Joao Palhinha as a replacement. But mixed messages are coming out of the club so far. In truth, Arteta might envisage a solid partnership between him and summer signing Declan Rice for the remainder of the season, which would give the Gunners more stability.
However, when the time comes to sell Partey, Arsenal will demand a significant fee considering their €50 million investment and the quality he brings to the table. Saudi Pro League clubs are reportedly interested in Partey, while rumours link him to Juventus and now Barcelona.
President Joan Laporta recently confirmed Barcelona’s intention to sign a midfielder in January if FFP rules allow it. However, he also pointed out that only a loan deal could materialise, considering their dismal financial condition.
There are links to several high-profile names, including Real Sociedad pair Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino. However, neither player might arrive, considering clubs will show reluctance to deal with the Catalans under the current circumstances.
Partey, for his part, fits in tactically, although he is a different player to Gavi, whom Barcelona are looking to replace after his severe knee injury. The Ghanaian international will give Xavi Hernandez a different option. But there are doubts about whether the Catalans can convince Arsenal.
The Gunners will want a premium fee in exchange, as they will surely oppose a loan deal in the middle of the season. While Barcelona admire Partey, his chances of joining them are slim to none ahead of January.
