ARSENAL have been dealt a blow with Atletico Madrid convinced Thomas Partey will stay this summer – despite his replacement already having been lined-up.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is hoping to add some star quality to his midfield ranks this summer, with £45million-rated Atleti ace Partey targeted.
However, the LaLiga giants are certain they won't part with him – despite being close to signing £36m star Napoli star Allan, according to reports.
Sky Sports journalist Matteo Moretto revealed Diego Simeone was confident in keeping hold of Partey this summer.
He tweeted: "To this day, Atletico Madrid is convinced that Thomas Partey is going to stay."
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Meanwhile, reports in Spain revealed Los Rojiblancos were on cusp of signing in-demand playmaker Allan from Napoli.
Marca claim Atleti are willing to pay £46m to bring him to the Wanda Metropolitano.
However, they face competition from Paris Saint-Germain and Everton for his signature.
The Brazilian, 29, has been at Napoli since 2015 and is currently under contract until the end of the 2022-23 season.
However, Allan has found game-time more limited under new boss Gennaro Gattuso and is set to be sold this summer.
Atletico Madrid are keen to take advantage and bring him to the Spanish capital.
But Everton will fancy their chances of signing him, with Allan a regular under current Toffees boss Carlo Ancelotti during his Napoli days.
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