Report: Arsenal interested in 21-year-old midfielder, they think he’s just like Thomas Partey

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Arsenal are said to be looking at signing Cheick Doucoure from Lens by Goal, as they eye up a back-up to Thomas Partey.

Partey back-up

Partey joined Arsenal last summer, but he has already shown that he may not be the most reliable midfielder, in terms of avoiding injury.

Partey suffered spells on the sidelines last term, and has picked up a knock during pre-season.

The Ghanian is a key player for Arsenal when fit, but when he is missing, the Gunners currently have limited options to fill in for him.

Arsenal do have Mohamed Elneny and Ainsley Maitland-Niles who could, theoretically, fill in for Partey.

But Arteta does not seem convinced by either, and it may be that another midfielder is added this summer – following the arrival of Albert Sambi Lokonga.

Doucoure is now said to be an option for Mikel Arteta’s side though, as they feel he shares similar characteristics as Partey.

Villa competition

Arsenal are now competing with Aston Villa for the Lens midfielder’s signature though, as Dean Smith’s side look to bolster their options in the centre of the pitch.

Arsenal and Villa have gone up against each other multiple times in the transfer window already.

And if both sides to push for a transfer it would be interesting to see who Doucoure picks, after an impressive season in Ligue 1 last term.

At the moment Villa’s interest is said to be more concrete, as they have made contact with Doucoure.

But Arsenal are seemingly monitoring the situation, with Doucoure firmly on their radar.