Report: Barcelona in race with eternal rivals to sign free agent Arsenal star

According to a recent report from Fichajes, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are both keen on securing the free transfer of Thomas Partey in the summer of 2025. 

The Arsenal midfielder is nearing the end of his contract, which has sparked interest from several top clubs looking to reinforce their midfield for the upcoming season.

At 31 years of age, Partey seems to be preparing for a potential exit from the Premier League, with a return to La Liga looking like a strong possibility. 

Barcelona, who have had some struggles with defensive stability in their midfield, see Partey as a perfect candidate to fill that gap. 

His ability to break up opposition attacks and provide solid defensive support would make him an ideal fit in Hansi Flick’s system. Flick, who values balance and stability in the midfield, could benefit from Partey’s experience and tactical awareness.

Then there is Atletico Madrid

Thomas Partey will be a free agent in 2025. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid are no strangers to Partey’s qualities. He enjoyed a successful spell under Diego Simeone before moving to Arsenal, and the prospect of reuniting with his former coach could be highly appealing. 

Partey’s familiarity with Simeone’s style and La Liga would give Atletico an advantage, as they know exactly how to utilise his physical and tactical strengths. 

His return to the Wanda Metropolitano would be seen as a major boost for a club looking to maintain their competitiveness at the top level.

With both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid prepared to fight for Partey’s signature, the race for the midfielder is expected to heat up as the 2025 summer window approaches. 

A free transfer for a player of his calibre presents a rare opportunity, and it remains to be seen which club will win the battle for his services. Whatever decision Partey makes, he is sure to bolster the ambitions of whichever side he joins.