English giants Arsenal FC are desperate to close a deal for highly sought-after Atlético Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey this summer, according to European transfer expert, Gianluca di Marzio.

The Gunners remain upbeat they will fight off competition from Manchester United and Bayern Munich.

But Money, as you’d expect, is the major sticking point in getting a transfer over the line.

Partey’s current Atlético Madrid contract runs until 2023 and includes a £42 million buyout clause.

“Arsenal want him a lot. Every Atletico Madrid player is in the market. So, it depends a lot on the offer. Atletico are open to selling every player if the offer is good” Sky Italia’s Gianluca di Marzio revealed

“It also depends on budget – how much Arsenal can afford? And how much Atletico want? Atletico will want money, so it is difficult to see them doing a deal involving other players as part of it.

“They are very smart when it comes to doing deals and it will not be a surprise if Thomas Partey was to stay. He is young, he is not like Diego Costa, and they can sell him next year if they want or even in two years’ time. So they are in control.”