FC Barcelona is currently assessing its options for potentially adding a new midfielder during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Manager Hansi Flick is reportedly keen to introduce more experienced players into his squad for the 2025/26 season. His aim is to strengthen the team without dismantling the core group that achieved success in his initial campaign.
Flick enjoyed a highly successful first year in charge in Catalonia, securing a treble of trophies: La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.
Barcelona`s triumph was significantly built around the performance of some exceptional young talents within Flick`s setup, including the teenage sensations Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi, alongside a revitalized Pedri.
However, with the 2025/26 season anticipated to be equally demanding, the addition of a veteran presence in the midfield could be a valuable asset. Arsenal`s Thomas Partey has been identified as a potential option.
Thomas Partey on Barcelona`s Summer Radar
Partey`s current contract with Arsenal is set to expire at the end of June, and as of now, a renewal agreement has not been reached.
Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, has already sanctioned Jorginho`s departure and is preparing to finalize a deal for Martin Zubimendi. Despite these changes, the Basque coach has hinted at his desire to retain Partey.
Arteta is reportedly hoping the Ghana international will sign a 12-month contract extension at the Emirates Stadium before Barcelona makes a formal approach.
According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Partey is viewed as an ideal candidate to inject experience into the squad, particularly following Ilkay Gundogan`s departure in 2024.
Potential Return to La Liga for Partey
Partey is already familiar with La Liga, having spent five seasons at Atletico Madrid from 2015 to 2020 before his move to the Gunners.
During his time under Diego Simeone, the 31-year-old midfielder made 188 appearances, scoring 16 goals.
Atletico Madrid had previously been linked with a potential reunion, but reports now suggest the choice for Partey is likely between staying at Arsenal or moving to Barcelona.
Looking at Barcelona`s 38 La Liga matches in the 2024/25 season, Pedri was a starter in 35 of them and remains Flick`s primary choice in midfield.
However, the position alongside Pedri appears less settled. Marc Casado started 20 games before encountering injury issues at the beginning of 2025.
