Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey is still set to sign for Arsenal and could feature in a swap deal with Alex Lacazette.

According to reports coming out of Spain, Partey, Mikel Arteta’s number one transfer target, will join the north London giants this summer.

Spanish media outlet Don Balon insist the deal will take place because Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone is aiming to reshape his squad - with Partey moving to the Emirates to help fund the rebuilding. 

Thanks to a release clause in Partey’s contract, due to expire in 2023, the Gunners could land the Ghana international for around £44m.

The sticking point could be if the north Londoners can afford to trigger the clause – however Atleti’s interest in Lacazette could help seal the deal.

While the 29-year-old former Lyon striker has faltered this term, only notching nine goals in 26 matches, he is still valued at around £40m – a fee which could see a swap deal take place with Lacazette heading to Madrid and Partey coming to London with a £4m cash adjustment in Atleti’s favour.

While Simeone would prefer the cash, the addition of Lacazette, would be a substantial addition to his squad.

While Arsenal’s last swap deal was far from a success - involving Alex Sanchez moving to Manchester United with Henrikh Mkhitaryan heading to the Emirates – Arteta is keen to land Partey, possibly at the expense of Lacazette in the squad.

GhanaSoccerNet have previously insisted Partey is keen to play in London - ignoring suitors PSG – as he dreams of emulating compatriot Michael Essien, by impressing in the Premier League for a club in the capital.

The 26-year-old Partey had told his advisors he wants to seal a transfer to Arsenal this summer.

Gunners head coach Arteta has identified influential defensive pivot Partey as one of his main targets as he aims to boost his squad, but, despite his squad agreeing to a 12.5 per cent pay cut, Arsenal are facing a squeeze on finances after revenues were slashed due to the lack of matchday and television income caused by the coronavirus pandemic – meaning a swap deal would greatly interest Arteta.