According to Libertad Digital, Arsenal are willing to pay Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey's release clause this summer.
What's the word?
The 6 foot ace has established himself as a key part of Diego Simeone's side over in Spain, making 33 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring three times.
Now, Spanish publication Libertad Digital claim the Gunners are "very serious" about signing him, and have "already contacted the player's environment to propose this operation".
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However, the report further adds that Partey's priority continues to be about remaining in Madrid, and that his representatives are in the process of negotiating a contract renewal with a salary increase.
Missing piece
Make no mistake about it, if the Gunners even get a sniff of being able to snap Partey up, then they simply have to take it.
The powerhouse has developed into one of European football's elite all-round midfielders, capable of breaking up the play, and delivering a killer ball. As per Whoscored, the the 26-year-old has averaged an impressive two tackles and 1.4 interceptions per game in La Liga this season, whilst he also manages 0.9 shots, 0.7 key passes and 1.8 dribbles per match too.
The likes of Granit Xhaka and Lucas Torreira each have their own merits, but neither have proven in their careers at the Emirates that they can be effective at both ends of the pitch. The duo have scored just 15 goals in a combined 241 appearances for the club - Partey has the exact same amount but in 69 games less.
Who on earth is that?!?! Can you name all of these obscure January signings?
And his former coach at Ghana, Kwesi Appiah, spoke glowingly of the all-action game he possesses. He said: "Every coach would love him in a team. He can (anchor) a team well and, of late, his scoring ability is fantastic. For me he is an all-round player. He leads simply by what he does."
The multiple dimensions that Partey brings is exactly what is missing for the Gunners right now in their midfield, and is why they must not hesitate if they get the chance to sign him.