Barcelona sporting staff ‘positive’ about experienced Arsenal midfielder, could sign for free

According to journalist Adrian Sanchez, the Barcelona management is in awe of Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey and the fact that his contract expires in 2025 has given them hope in their pursuit.

“One of the names that sports management likes most is Thomas Partey. His contract ends in 2025 and has NOT been renewed at the moment,” said the reporter about the midfielder.

Partey, 30, has appeared in just 11 Premier League games this season and has been largely absent for the duration. 

His last match saw him sustain a hamstring injury that kept him out for 112 days, and he has only recently made his return. During his absence, he missed a total of 19 games—a significant period away from first-team action.

Will Arsenal sell Partey?

Partey is undoubtedly a talented player when he is fit and in form, but his injury history speaks for itself. 

His frequent absences raise questions about whether Arsenal will decide on his continuity or consider selling him as they still have the chance to get a good return.

Barcelona are interested in signing Thomas Partey from Arsenal. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Now, Partey’s contract runs until the summer of 2025, and if Mikel Arteta does not see a long-term role for him in the team, it may be wise to consider selling him while they can.

With reports suggesting that Jorginho, another target for Barcelona, is close to signing a new contract, there is further speculation about Partey’s future at Arsenal. 

If the rumours hold true, the club may be more inclined to entertain offers for Partey.

Partey has suitors from Saudi Arabia

In June, last year, several Saudi teams expressed interest in signing Partey but faced outright rejection from Arsenal.

A year later, the situation may have shifted. Jorginho has stepped up, while Partey’s recurring injuries have kept him out of more games this season than ever before.

With just one year left on Partey’s contract, this summer is the last opportunity to potentially earn some money from his sale. 

Nevertheless, his strong performances against Chelsea and Tottenham have sparked calls for the Gunners to retain him for another season in the hope that he can remain healthy, but an offer from Barcelona could be hard to refuse.