Arsenal 'handed encouragement in Thomas Partey pursuit'

Arsenal's hopes of signing Thomas Partey this summer have reportedly been handed a boost with Atletico Madrid closing in on the signature of Lucas Torreira.

The Spanish outfit are unwilling to consider Torreira as part of a swap deal for Thomas, who is still thought to be one of Arsenal's top transfer targets in the current window.

However, Atletico are interested in completing a separate deal for Torreira, which Sky Sports News claims could pave the way for Thomas to move in the opposite direction.

Arsenal are hoping to get £22m for the Uruguayan midfielder, which they would then look to reinvest in bringing Thomas to the Emirates Stadium.

Atletico are holding out for the Ghanaian's full £45m release clause, while the signing of Torreira would provide an immediate replacement in the middle of the park.

In addition to the Thomas, Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Lyon's Houssem Aouar this summer.