Barcelona to scout midfielder during Real Madrid vs Arsenal; Laporta keen on signing

As reported earlier today, FC Barcelona plan on signing a new midfielder and a defender in the summer transfer window.

It was earlier believed that a new midfielder was not on the agenda for Deco, Hansi Flick & co., but it appears that there has been a change in strategy and the Catalans now intend to add another player in the midfield department.

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, has been heavily linked with Barcelona in the past.

While talks of a move had gone quiet in recent weeks, things might change again.

Barcelona to scout Thomas Partey

Indeed, according to Fichajes, Barcelona have ramped up their scouting activity on Thomas Partey, as part of its search for cost-effective reinforcements for the 2025/26 season.

With the Ghanaian midfielder’s contract at Arsenal expiring in the summer, he has become a highly appealing option for the Catalan club, particularly in light of their limited financial flexibility.

As such, representatives from Barcelona will travel to Madrid this week to watch Partey in action during the Champions League clash between Real Madrid and Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The aim is to monitor his performance in a high-stakes setting as the club considers him a serious target for midfield reinforcement.

Laporta’s personal interest

The report further states that Barcelona president Joan Laporta has requested that Deco and the scouting department keep a close eye on Partey, recognising the Arsenal midfielder as a potential market opportunity.

At 31 years of age, he brings with him significant experience at the top level of European football. His defensive stability, physicality and leadership qualities, are seen as ideal attributes to bolster the midfield.

Another factor that counts in Partey’s favour is his familiarity with La Liga, thanks to his previous stint with Atletico Madrid.

Despite their keen interest, Barcelona are aware that the operation will not be straightforward. Other top European clubs are also keeping tabs on Partey’s situation and may attempt to lure him with competitive offers.