Emmanuel Anele      Comments Offon Arsenal considering move for Atletico Madrid defensive midfielder

Arsenal have reportedly had a second bid for Atletico Madrid anchorman Thomas Partey turned down by Diego Simeone’s side.

Despite the fact that the Gunners are set to be severely financially-restricted heading into the current transfer window, Ghana international midfielder continues to be rumoured with a switch to North London club.

With Partey supposedly stalling over a new contract at the Wanda Metropolitano, it has been reported that the North London club are hopeful of securing the services of the 27-year-old up for a cut-price figure this summer.

However, The Guardian reports that Atletico are holding firm on their stance and are demanding €50m (£45.5m) for his services.

Mikel Arteta’s side were believed to have had an initial bid of €25m (£22.8m) plus a player turned down, and the report suggests that the North London club have been rebuffed again by Atletico after offering the same amount of money and Matteo Guendouzi in a swap deal.

Guendouzi has not featured for the Gunners since his fracas with Neal Maupay in their defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, and Mikel Arteta’s side have allegedly made the 21-year-old available for swap deals ahead of the summer window.

Partey played 35 times for Atletico Madrid during the 2019-20 La Liga season and scored three goals for Simeone’s side.