Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey 'one step away from joining Arsenal'

Arsenal are reportedly on the verge of getting a deal over the line for Atletico Madrid star Thomas Partey.

The Gunners are believed to have turned to the Ghana international in their long-running search for a holding midfielder.

Partey is rumoured to have a £44m release clause in his contract as things stand, which Corriere dello Sport claims Arsenal are willing to trigger.

The report indicates that the 26-year-old is one step away from sealing a switch from Madrid to London, but it first depends on other clubs' transfer business.

Atletico want to ensure that Saul Niguez remains at the Wanda Metropolitano, with domestic rivals Barcelona rumoured to be lurking.

Partey has featured 34 times in all competitions for Atleti this season.