Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta wants to sign another central midfielder in the summer and the north London club are now "one step away" from signing Thomas Partey after tabling a £43million (€50m) bid for the Atletico Madrid star.

The Ghana international has impressed Arteta during his five seasons in La Liga.

And despite already having Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi, the Spaniard feels the 26-year-old would provide good competition for a starting place in central midfield.

Atletico are in discussions with the player about a new deal, with his current contract set to expire in 2023.

However, the Gunners are willing to test their resolve, as according to Italian publication Corriere dello Sport, Arsenal have "€50m on the table" for Partey, who it is claimed is now "one step away" from a move to the Emirates.

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