He is not for sale:Arsenal could be forced into quicker contract decision amid 'interest' from Atletico Madrid and Barcelona

The 31-year-old is arguably playing his best football in some time this season, offering fine protection of the back-line alongside Declan Rice, although Mikel Merino’s return to fitness could see his opportunities reduced. Partey’s contract is up at the end of the season, and Arsenal are yet to offer him a new deal despite his fine form this term.

According to recent reports, Arteta remains undecided whether to offer Partey a new deal, but he may have to make a decision quicker than anticipated. That’s because, according to Jorge Asensio, both Partey’s old club Atletico Madrid and Barcelona are both interested in a deal ahead of next summer.

As things stand, both clubs are free to agree a pre-contract agreement with Partey from January 1, with the opportunity to land the midfielder on a free transfer. Arsenal can only prevent that by agreeing on a new contract ahead of January.