Barcelona keeping tabs on Arsenal star ahead of a potential move in 2025: Reports
Hansi Flick's Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing Arsenal's Thomas Partey after the Ghanaian becomes a free agent next summer, as per football journalist Miguel Rico (h/t FCB World).
The 31-year-old joined the Gunners from LaLiga's Atletico Madrid in October 2020 for a reported transfer fee of £45 million. Mikel Arteta's side completed the deal on the deadline day after meeting the release clause of the 31-year-old midfielder.
Since joining the North London club, the Ghanaian midfielder has made 124 appearances across all competitions, bagging six goals and four assists. Partey was a top signing for Arsenal in the initial years, but later his individual success was restricted by injuries and fitness concerns.
However, Partey also has the experience of playing in LaLiga, where he excelled under the guidance of Diego Simeone. Due to the financial crisis, Hansi Flick's side won't indulge in high-priced transfers. As per the aforementioned report, Barcelona tried signing the Ghanaian earlier too.
Nevertheless, all attempts have failed to find a positive end for Blaugrana. Partey's ongoing contract will end in summer 2025 and Sporting director Deco is keen to bring the 31-year-old back to LaLiga.
This season, Thomas Partey has started all five Premier League games for the Gunners.
Former Barcelona boss gives verdict about Frenkie de Jong's return
Former Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman feels that Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong is still not ready to return to the full swing. The Dutch midfielder has played two matches for Barcelona this season, and was on the ground for just 24 minutes.
Frenkie de Jong joined the Camp Nou outfit. Eredivisie giants Ajax in July 2019 for a reported transfer fee of €75 million. However, his time in Barca has been affected by injuries in the recent couple of years.
As per the reports by Diario Sport, it was stated the Dutchman would be soon available to start matches for Barcelona. However, the Netherlands national team boss Ronald Koeman has stated that Frenkie de Jong is yet to recover entirely.
He said (via Everything Barca):
"I spoke to Frenkie de Jong on the phone. With all due respect, he is still far away from retuning 100%. It's too early. He found playing for 15 minutes exciting and tough. He still needs to play for a while and get into a rhythm."
The LaLiga giants have a huge list of injured players, including the likes of Marc Andre Ter Stegen, Gavi, Ronald Araujo, Dani Olmo, and Fermin Lopez.