Barcelona have set sights on Thomas Partey in the summer, with Arsenal likely to replace the Ghanaian with Martin Zubimendi.
According to AS, Thomas Partey could have emerged as a summer target for Barcelona as the club continues to look for bargain deals in the market. The Ghanaian will have entered the final year of his deal at Arsenal, who could then sell him and replace the midfielder with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
Barcelona keen on Thomas Partey?
Thomas Partey remains one of the best midfielders around for his talent, but fitness issues have curtailed his influence since joining Arsenal. He remains one of Mikel Arteta’s most trusted players, but the club could decide to sell him next summer.
Barcelona were linked earlier ahead of the January window and might stay in the chase when he enters the final year of his deal in the summer. With the Gunners likely to sell, the Catalans will sense an opportunity to bring the 30-year-old back to La Liga, where he shone with Atletico Madrid for many years.
He suits Xavi’s system well, as Barcelona could eye a bargain deal for the Ghanaian midfielder when he becomes available. However, some Saudi clubs could threaten their chances, with Arsenal likely to maximise the finances from his sale, something the Catalans are not in a position to pay much.
Hence, Barcelona will stay on high alert regarding Partey, as they could try to push for the front seat for the midfielder’s signature. Arsenal will look for a reasonable fee in return as Mikel Arteta eyes a midfield revamp next summer.
Arsenal to replace Thomas Partey with Martin Zubimendi?
Over the last months, suggestions have continually linked Martin Zubimendi with a move to the Emirates. The links have been persistent since last summer, as the Spaniard still has a £52 million release clause in his contract, which the Gunners are reportedly ready to trigger.
Arteta wants to add to the midfield that saw them purchase Declan Rice for £105 million in the summer. The 24-year-old Spaniard’s talents could suit what Arteta wants, as his continuous availability may have a massive say in Arsenal’s interest.
As for Partey, he remains a crucial star for Arteta, as his return to training might have boosted Arsenal’s chances of winning the title this season. However, beyond the current campaign, the Ghanaian might see his name on top of the Gunners’ sales list, as Barcelona will look to target a move for the midfielder.
