Atletico Madrid intensify pursuit of Baba Iddrisu as Thomas Partey's replacement

Atletico Madrid have intensified their pursuit of Real Mallorca midfielder Baba Iddrisu as a replacement for want-away compatriot Thomas Partey.

The Spanish giants have identified the 24-year-old as a direct replacement for the departing Partey who is closing in on a move to Arsenal.

Partey, 27, has refused contract extension at the club as he pushes for a move away from the Wanda Metropolitano.

Atleti see Real Mallorca midfielder Baba Iddrisu as the man to replace his compatriot as he possesses similar qualities and skillset with the in-demand midfielder.

It highlights that Baba has impressed for Mallorca – who are back in the top-flight this season – across his 27 starts in La Liga and is one of the side’s most valuable players.

Born in Accra, the capital of Ghana, Baba moved to Spain at early age and joined Mallorca permanently in 2016 following a series of loan spells from Leganes.

Primarily a holding midfielder, Baba earned his first cap at international level last year.