Hansi Flick has received the news and he wasn't expecting it. For some time now, the Barça coach had turned to his compatriot Kimmich as the priority to reinforce the midfield next season. However, it seems that Deco's plans would go in a different direction, preferring another option at zero cost to improve the defensive pivot position.
Relevo has discovered that Thomas Partey is very popular within the Barça's offices. At 31 years old, the Ghanaian pivot has accumulated experience in La Liga after having played for Atlético for five years. His contract with Arsenal ends next season, and he could reinforce the Barça squad at zero cost.
The truth is that Deco has been following him for months. He already tried to sign Thomas Partey during last summer's transfer market but Arsenal didn't want to negotiate. The sporting director considers that he's the profile that best adapts to Barça's needs and intends to obtain his signature for zero euros.
Joshua Kimmich: a Repeated Sticker in Barcelona's Album
Although, on a global level, Kimmich is believed to be a better player than Thomas Partey, the truth is that Deco sees him as a "repeated sticker". There are several youth players at Barça who can do his job for much less money, such as Bernal or Casadó.
Thomas Partey is not only more convincing in this aspect, but also financially. Although Kimmich could also arrive at zero cost, the truth is that his salary would be much higher than the Ghanaian player's. Kimmich would be asking for a salary that would be among the highest in the squad.
Meanwhile, Thomas would agree to play for Barça for much less money, which is something that should be taken into account at the moment. Deco is well aware that Kimmich is better, but that is also reflected in the price.
Thomas Partey: Deco's choice
While Kimmich is Hansi Flick's priority, Deco's preferred choice is Thomas Partey. There are several reasons for this: role, salary and experience in Spain.
there's still a long way to go, but Hansi Flick wouldn't be against the option of Thomas Partey either. He likes the player and he fits in well with Barcelona.
In any case, nothing has been decided yet and everything is being decided calmly. Hansi Flick and Deco are usually on the same page, but this time they will have to come to an agreement.