Arsenal have started looking at alternatives for Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey.

The Gunners cannot meet Partey's release clause of €50m and Atleti are not willing to negotiate a lower price.

This has forced Mikel Arteta to search elsewhere, and AS Roma Live claims the Spaniard wants to sign Giallorossi midfielder Amadou Diawara.

The 23-year-old was linked with Spurs and Chelsea in January.

Diawara's form has been indifferent since joining Roma from Napoli last summer, nabbing one assist in 28 appearances.

But the Guinea international is still regarded as a player with much potential and Arsenal have reportedly made an initial offer of €25m (£22.5m).

However, Roma are holding out for at least €30million (£27million).