FC Barcelona has one of the most complete squads in European soccer in the midfield. With names like Pedri, Gavi, Fermín López, or even Dani Olmo as a possible reinforcement, the culés seem to have the area covered.
To that, we must add young talents like Marc Casadó or Marc Bernal, who have surprised this season coming from La Masia. Of course, there's Frenkie De Jong. Although his future remains uncertain.
Frenkie: The pillar that could leave
For months, there has been talk of a possible departure of the Dutchman. Although he has recently regained his role as a starter, his desire to change scenery was on the table for a long time. Barça, which has regained competitiveness and ambition for titles, still isn't sure if they can count on him in the long term.
That's why, from the offices in the Ciudad Condal, Deco and his team are already exploring options. The idea is to avoid being left short in case of a departure.
An experienced option at zero cost
This is where a name that many remember in LaLiga comes up: Thomas Partey. The Ghanaian midfielder, who currently plays for Arsenal, ends his contract in June. He hasn't renewed, and according to Mundo Deportivo, he wants to return to Spain.
In fact, he himself would have offered himself to Barça as an option to reinforce the pivot. He knows the league, has international experience, and wouldn't cost a euro in transfer fees.
For a club with financial problems like Barça, it's an opportunity that can't be ignored.
An old acquaintance of Simeone
Partey is not just anyone. His career in Europe started in Spain, going through Leganés, Atlético B, Mallorca, and Almería before settling in Atlético de Madrid's first team.
Simeone trusted him for six seasons. There, he went from a prospect to a starter thanks to his physique, his ability to intercept, and his tactical discipline.
Until Arsenal came along. In 2020, the English paid the clause: 50 million euros. A great deal for the rojiblancos and a leap for Partey.
Laporta always wins
Now, five years later, that player for whom Simeone received 50 million could land at Barça without leaving a euro in the rival's coffers. Free. No drama, just negotiating the salary.
Laporta, an expert in such moves, sees it clearly: if De Jong leaves, Partey is a safe, cheap, and experienced solution.
Soccer takes many turns. Sometimes, the best signing isn't the most expensive. If Laporta manages to close this deal, he will prove it once again.