Before facing Real Madrid… Arsenal star surprises everyone and requests to leave for Barcelona in the upcoming transfer window

In a surprising twist just hours before Arsenal’s high-stakes UEFA Champions League showdown with Real Madrid, reports have emerged that midfield enforcer Thomas Partey has informed the club of his intention to leave this summer, with Barcelona named as his preferred destination.

The Ghanaian international, whose contract with Arsenal is set to expire at the end of the current season, has yet to agree on terms for a renewal. This development has opened the door for a potential free transfer, a situation that FC Barcelona is reportedly monitoring very closely.

Tonight’s match at the Emirates Stadium could potentially be one of Partey’s final outings in an Arsenal shirt. With Mikel Arteta preparing his team for one of the most important games of the season, the timing of this news has added an unexpected layer of drama to an already intense buildup.

According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Partey has been offered to Barcelona through intermediaries, and the player himself is said to be highly interested in making the switch to Camp Nou. Despite not being a traditional fit for their usual transfer targets, Barcelona may view the free signing of an experienced midfielder as an opportunity too good to ignore.

The Catalan giants have long admired Partey’s ability to break up play, drive the ball forward, and shield the defense — qualities that have been somewhat lacking in their current midfield lineup. However, the path to signing him is not without obstacles.

Barcelona currently have three players in similar roles: Marc Casadó, Bernal, and Frenkie de Jong. De Jong, in particular, remains a core figure at the club, and his continued presence could complicate any move for Partey. Unless the Dutchman decides to leave in the summer — a possibility still hanging in the balance — Barca may find it difficult to accommodate another central midfielder.

Nevertheless, Barcelona are known for adapting quickly to changing market conditions, especially when it involves acquiring talent without hefty transfer fees. In Partey’s case, the financial dynamics might play to their advantage, especially in a summer where budget limitations will shape many of their decisions.

Back in England, The Mirror reported last month that Arsenal are planning a significant squad overhaul at the end of the season. Up to 11 players are believed to be on the chopping block, including some high-profile names like Oleksandr Zinchenko, Jorginho, Takehiro Tomiyasu — and now, Partey.

It’s believed that Arsenal are looking to restructure the squad with younger, more durable players who can fit seamlessly into Arteta’s high-tempo system. Partey, who has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, may no longer fit that vision despite his obvious talent and experience.

The Ghanaian’s performances since joining from Atlético Madrid in 2020 have been a mix of commanding displays and frustrating absences. While his quality is undisputed, his availability has often been questioned — a factor that could also weigh into Arsenal’s decision not to extend his contract.

From Partey’s perspective, a move to Barcelona could offer a fresh start in a league he’s already familiar with, having played in La Liga for five years. The chance to link up with former rivals in a more technical environment may also suit his style as he enters the final prime years of his career.

The timing of this request — just before such a crucial Champions League tie — raises questions about the player’s focus and long-term commitment. Still, some insiders believe that Partey wanted clarity on his future before risking further injury or complications down the line.

Barcelona’s interest in Partey aligns with a broader transfer policy shift under sporting director Deco, who has emphasized the importance of finding experienced players available at low cost. With the Catalans juggling both financial constraints and the need to remain competitive, Partey could be viewed as a strategic reinforcement.

While nothing is official yet, negotiations are expected to progress after the Champions League quarterfinals conclude. Much will depend on Arsenal’s performance in Europe and Barcelona’s summer movements — particularly any potential sale involving De Jong or other midfield reshuffling.

For now, Arsenal will be hoping Partey can put transfer talk aside and focus on the task at hand: stopping Real Madrid’s formidable midfield and giving the Gunners a crucial first-leg advantage in front of their home fans.

The Gunners’ faithful will be watching closely, perhaps for the last time, as Partey dons the red and white in what could be the twilight of his Arsenal journey. Whether or not he ends up at Barcelona, one thing is clear — change is coming for both player and club.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. A dramatic summer window lies ahead, and Partey’s name is likely to remain central in the transfer headlines.