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 £45million 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.