Arsenal Hopeful of New Contract as PSG, Barcelona Circle Looming Free Agent Target | OneFootball

PSG have plenty of depth in midfield, but their lack of size continues to be a talking point—one reason they’re reportedly eyeing a move for an experienced Arsenal player.

Fabian Ruiz, at 6-foot-2 (1.89 meters), is the tallest regular in the rotation, but there’s a noticeable drop-off in height beyond him. Senny Mayulu, listed at 6 feet (1.83 meters), brings some length, though the 18-year-old is still developing. Outside of him, PSG don’t have a truly physical presence in the middle of the park.

That could push the club to pursue a more imposing option this summer, ideally, someone who fits Luis Enrique’s possession-heavy style without disrupting the team’s flow.

Adding a veteran presence could also help balance the young core PSG have been building over the last few windows.

With that in mind, Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has emerged as a name to watch. According to Arsenal insider Charles Watts, the Gunners have yet to begin contract talks with Partey, whose deal expires this summer. Barcelona, Juventus, and PSG are all reportedly keeping tabs on his situation.

How Arsenal are feeling about keeping Barcelona, PSG target

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On Sunday, Football Insider reported that Mikel Arteta has growing optimism that Partey will sign a new contract to remain an Arsenal player next season.

The report also notes that Arteta wants to keep Partey at Arsenal, and there’s growing optimism he’ll sign a new deal. The main holdup appears to be the length of the contract, which is believed to be the sticking point in negotiations.

This update from Football Insider follows an earlier report from the same outlet earlier this month, which revealed that Arsenal had entered last-minute talks to keep Partey. The club had seemingly shifted its stance after initially being expected to let the 31-year-old leave on a free transfer.

Partey is believed to be open to staying and signing a new two-year deal, but he’s also prepared to explore options abroad if no agreement is reached. Barcelona have reportedly emerged as his preferred destination, with Mundo Deportivo claiming the LaLiga side are closely monitoring his status. Financially, they view him as a potential bargain.

Whether Arsenal can convince Partey to stay—or whether he heads elsewhere—remains to be seen.