- Thomas Partey is set to leave Arsenal and join Barcelona on a free transfer
- Hansi Flick wants “smart solutions” to strengthen the squad after winning La Liga
- The Nico Williams deal stalls over registration demands and past complications
Key Takeaways:
Barcelona are targeting Thomas Partey as one of their key reinforcements this summer, with Spanish media reporting that the Arsenal midfielder is close to joining the Catalan club. New head coach Hansi Flick, fresh off a title-winning debut season in La Liga, is said to be looking for “smart solutions” to upgrade the squad without incurring major transfer fees.
🚨🚨| Barcelona are in talks to sign Thomas Partey this summer on a free transfer.
[@TheSunFootball] pic.twitter.com/AL5ggOowtt
— Managing Barça (@ManagingBarca) June 1, 2025
While the club’s transfer focus had so far been on signing a winger, with Luis Diaz and Nico Williams as main targets, attention has now turned to Partey. The 32-year-old Ghanaian is out of contract at Arsenal and is expected to depart the London club, according to David Ornstein. A return to Spain appears most likely, as Partey spent seven years at Atletico Madrid, including loan spells at other Spanish clubs.
According to Fichajes, Barcelona plan to offer the experienced midfielder a two-year contract with an option for a third. The deal is seen as a strategic move that would strengthen the midfield with both quality and experience, without burdening the budget.
Meanwhile, the potential transfer of Nico Williams remains uncertain. Despite the player’s willingness to join, negotiations have stalled in recent days. One of the main issues is Williams’ demand for specific registration guarantees, linked to certain conditions and clauses that Barcelona reportedly find unacceptable.
The club’s recent difficulties registering Dani Olmo and Pau Victor last season are part of the context, and Williams is keen to avoid a similar situation. His agent has clearly communicated that this must be reflected in any agreement with Barcelona.