Barcelona Makes Shocking Move for Thomas Partey

Just when it seemed Arsenal were gearing up for another summer of steady progression, a surprise development has thrown Thomas Partey’s future at the club into doubt. According to multiple reports, Spanish giant Barcelona has made an unexpected approach to sign Partey on a free transfer, potentially capitalizing on Arsenal’s slow contract talks with the Ghanaian midfielder.

While Mikel Arteta is believed to be keen on keeping the 31-year-old, nothing has been finalized, and the longer the delay, the more noise grows around a possible exit. The Gunners want to close the gap on Liverpool and Manchester City for next season.

Partey Caught Between Loyalty and Logic

Thomas Partey has had a rollercoaster spell in North London since arriving from Atlético Madrid in 2020 for £45 million. While injuries have occasionally interrupted his flow, he remains one of Arsenal’s most influential and physically dominant players when fit. 

Last season, he featured in 35 league matches as the Gunners went toe-to-toe with Liverpool for the Premier League title. Partey also contributed to Arsenal’s journey to the Champions League semi-finals, where they narrowly lost to eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain. 

By all accounts, Partey appears to be settled in London. He has developed a strong working relationship with Arteta and recently welcomed a baby, further strengthening his ties to the city. Yet despite all this, contract talks have stalled, and the clock is ticking. One source close to Partey told SunSport:

“Thomas respects Arsenal massively and loves living in London, but he also knows his worth and wants a deal that reflects his standing at the club.” That last part is the key. Partey turns 32 this month, and, realistically, this could be the final big contract of his career. Understandably, he wants terms that reflect his importance to the squad without forcing him into a significant pay cut.

Barcelona Sensing an Opportunity

With Arsenal dragging their feet, Barcelona has quietly moved in. The Catalan club, still navigating tight Financial Fair Play restrictions, views Partey as a brilliant, low-risk signing, a player of proven pedigree who won’t cost a transfer fee. New manager Hansi Flick is said to be a massive admirer of Partey’s game. Given Barcelona’s need to add steel and experience to their midfield, the Ghanaian international ticks a lot of boxes. According to sources, the club has already opened dialogue with Partey’s camp, laying the groundwork for a potential deal this summer. 

Barcelona isn’t the only one monitoring the situation. Partey’s former club, Atlético Madrid, and multiple Saudi Pro League sides have also expressed interest. But so far, Barcelona has made the first serious move. From their perspective, it’s a no-brainer: a seasoned European midfielder, Champions League experience, a powerful engine room presence, all without paying a single penny. The deal could suit all parties if they can make the numbers work in terms of wages. But that’s a big “if.”

Arsenal Eyeing Life After Partey

Behind the scenes, Arsenal are quietly preparing for life without Partey. While no official decision has been made, their aggressive pursuit of Martin Zubimendi suggests they’re not willing to be caught short in midfield. The Gunners are reportedly ready to trigger the Spaniard’s £51 million release clause, with personal terms already wrapped up.

According to Spanish outlet COPE, senior Arsenal officials expect the deal to be completed swiftly, providing Arteta with a ready replacement should Partey depart. Zubimendi, who turned down Liverpool last summer, has long been admired by Arteta. Now a Euro 2024 winner, the 25-year-old brings a different profile to the midfield, more composed, tactically versatile, and with room to grow into a leadership role.

He’s seen as the ideal long-term pivot to support the likes of Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard. Arsenal’s summer budget is expected to stretch to £200 million, with additions planned across midfield, defence, and the forward line. But replacing Partey, whether this year or next, would always be a key part of the rebuild.

Final Thoughts

So, where does that leave Partey? Currently, his future remains uncertain. While his priority is to stay put, he won’t do so on reduced terms. Arsenal, for their part, have remained non-committal. With just weeks remaining on his current deal, the decision is fast approaching.

The next few weeks could define the next chapter of Partey’s career. Whether it’s another spell in Spain with Barcelona, a romantic return to Atlético, or a lucrative move to the Gulf, the midfielder has options. But if Arsenal don’t act soon, they could lose a key player for nothing and watch him thrive elsewhere. It’s now up to the Gunners to decide if they still see Partey as part of their future or if the shocking Barcelona interest has already changed the narrative.