Thomas Partey encouragement for Arsenal as Atletico reportedly target Marc Roca

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Arsenal may have received a boost in their pursuit of Thomas Partey, with Atletico Madrid seemingly preparing for life without the Ghanaian.

According to a report from Marca, the Spanish giants are ready to move for Espanyol midfielder Marc Roca.

Like Partey, Roca is a defensive midfielder who also has strong technical ability, suggesting Atleti do see him as a direct replacement for Partey.

That said, the club would still rather not lose their enforcer and will try to refer Arsenal to the player’s £45 million release clause.

Arsenal need to sell players in order to get near that figure, with Hector Bellerin, Sokratis, Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi all linked with exits from the Emirates in recent weeks.

It is thought Partey is Arsenal’s prime target at the moment, having already signed Willian and Gabriel Magalhaes this summer.

TBR’s View – Roca news is positive for Arsenal

The idea Atleti could be looking at players to replace Partey has to be encouraging for Gunners officials.

The Spaniards have been dogged in their protection of the 27-year-old so far, but this is an indication they would be willing to sell.

Arsenal should still aim to raise the £45 million, but Atleti’s reported Roca interest might just help Arsenal ultimately make a small saving.