Barcelona are lining up a sensational swoop for Arsenal midfield warrior Thomas Partey and he won’t cost them a penny.

The La Liga giants’ representatives have opened talks with the Ghanaian hardman’s camp over a free transfer this summer with Partey's future at the Emirates still up in the air.

Partey, 31, is out of contract at the end of June but has yet to agree a new deal with Arsenal despite Mikel Arteta publicly confirming he would like to keep him.

The complex and slow-moving nature of negotiations has encouraged clubs like Barcelona and Atletico Madrid who are both looking to bolster their midfield muscle without breaking the bank.

Sources close to the player have told SunSport that Partey is seen as a cut-price fix for Barcelona’s engine room with boss Hansi Flick a big admirer of the ex-Atletico Madrid star.

The Ghana international who joined the Gunners in 2020 for £45 million has endured an injury-plagued spell in North London — but when fit, remains a dominant presence in midfield.

He enjoyed a strong campaign, playing in 35 league games as Arsenal pushed Liverpool for the title.

Sunsport understands that the Ghanaian would ideally like to stay in north London having built a strong relationship with Arteta.

Partey also recently welcomed a new baby and with his family settled in London, he would love the continuity.

However, he is looking for a deal that doesn’t require him to take a significant pay cut- aware that this could be his final major contract.

He turns 32 this month and is seeking a deal that reflects his status as one of the club’s most important players.

Barcelona are still grappling with Financial Fair Play restrictions but they love the idea of securing a top-tier player on a free transfer.

Beyond Barcelona, Partey has also attracted interest from Saudi clubs- but it’s the Catalan giants who have made the first serious move and are keeping the pressure on.

One source close to the player told SunSport: “Thomas respects Arsenal massively and loves living in London, but he also knows his worth and wants a deal that reflects his standing at the club.”

Partey's potential exit from Arsenal would free up a space in the midfield for next season.

And the Gunners are keen to bring Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer and are set to trigger his £51million release clause.

According to reports in Spanish outlet Cope, senior Arsenal figures expect the deal to be completed swiftly.

Personal terms and the relevant documents have already been signed and agreed, as well as the payment structure around the Spaniard’s release clause.

Zubimendi is highly rated by Arteta, who convinced the Euro 2024 winner of the North London project after he turned down a switch to Arne Slot’s Liverpool last summer.

It is the start of a huge summer of incomings for Arsenal as they prepare to splash around £200m on new talent to fire them to Premier League glory next term.