Barcelona plot sensational swoop for Arsenal star Thomas Partey
Barcelona Eye Surprise Move for Arsenal’s Thomas Partey on Free Transfer
Barcelona are reportedly planning a surprise swoop for Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey when his contract expires next summer, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The Catalan giants are struggling to secure funds to register Dani Olmo in January and have once again resorted to financial maneuvers. However, their budget constraints mean they may have to rely on free transfers to strengthen their squad.
With Partey’s contract set to expire in 2025 and no renewal offer on the table, Barca are keen to sign the 31-year-old on a free transfer as a replacement for Frenkie de Jong, who they are trying to offload due to his high wages.
Despite his past injury struggles, Partey has remained fit this season, making 17 Premier League appearances with two goals and two assists. He has also been a key figure in Arsenal’s Champions League campaign, starting all six group-stage matches.
Should Barca Aim Higher?
While Partey is a quality midfielder, some believe Barcelona should set their sights higher. Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich, who will also be available on a free transfer next summer, could be a better option.
The 29-year-old is reportedly frustrated with Bayern’s attempts to offer him a reduced salary from his current €20 million per year. If negotiations continue to stall, Kimmich may consider leaving the Allianz Arena, with several top clubs already showing interest.
Given his versatility as both a midfielder and a right-back—another position Barca need to strengthen—Kimmich could be the ideal signing. If Barcelona are serious about rebuilding, they must move quickly to secure him ahead of their competitors.
Liverpool’s interest in Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez has been a topic of recent speculation. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the situation:
Liverpool’s Previous Interest:
Before Álvarez’s transfer to Atlético Madrid in August 2024, Liverpool explored the possibility of signing him from Manchester City. However, negotiations did not progress, and Álvarez moved to Atlético for a reported fee of £81 million. His agent, Fernando Hidalgo, confirmed this past interest, stating: “I can confirm that Liverpool were interested in Julián last summer.” citeturn0search0
Current Transfer Speculations:
Recent reports suggest that Liverpool are considering a club-record bid to acquire Álvarez. The striker has been in exceptional form for Atlético, scoring 22 goals this season and playing a pivotal role in their La Liga title challenge. citeturn0search0
Atlético Madrid’s Stance:
Atlético Madrid have publicly addressed these rumors. Sporting director Carlos Busero refuted claims of Liverpool submitting an official offer, stating: “The talk about Liverpool submitting an official offer to sign our player Julián Álvarez is incorrect. What is being circulated is just rumors.” He emphasized Álvarez’s importance to Atlético’s project and expressed no intention of letting him go. citeturn0search3
Financial Implications:
Reports indicate that Atlético would demand a substantial fee to consider Álvarez’s departure, potentially around €200 million (£167.3 million). Such a sum would surpass Liverpool’s previous transfer records, including the £75 million paid for Virgil van Dijk and the potential £85 million for Darwin Núñez. citeturn0search1
Conclusion:
While Liverpool have historically shown interest in Julián Álvarez, current indications suggest that a transfer is unlikely in the near future. Atlético Madrid remain keen on retaining the striker, and the financial requirements for such a move would be unprecedented for Liverpool.
Liverpool’s Interest in Julián Álvarez: The Truth Behind the Speculation
Despite recent speculation, Liverpool have not made a fresh approach for Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez, TEAMtalk understands. However, the Reds have previously shown interest in the former Manchester City forward.
Álvarez moved to Atlético Madrid in the summer of 2024 for £82 million after a successful spell at Man City, where he scored 36 goals and registered 17 assists in 103 appearances. He also won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and a Champions League but often played second fiddle to Erling Haaland.
Since joining Atlético, the 25-year-old has been in outstanding form, scoring 23 goals and providing five assists in 44 appearances. His performances have fueled speculation that Liverpool admire him and might consider a club-record bid.
However, as of now, there are no concrete moves from Liverpool to sign him.
Barcelona’s Transfer Plans: Nico Williams & Mo Salah
Barcelona had long set their sights on signing Athletic Club winger Nico Williams, seeing him as the perfect fit alongside Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. However, financial constraints prevented the club from activating his release clause, and Athletic managed to convince him to extend his contract. The arrival of Dani Olmo further cooled Barça’s pursuit of Williams, leaving the young winger in Bilbao to continue his development.
Now, Barcelona are shifting their focus to signing Mohamed Salah. With the Liverpool forward set to become a free agent in June, the Catalan club hope to take advantage of the opportunity and secure his signature without a transfer fee.
