The rumours linking Arsenal with Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey have been rife for the past few weeks.
Partey is viewed by many as one of the best in the world in his position, recently starring in Atleti's 3-2 win versus Liverpool at Anfield.
Arsenal have expressed an interest in the Ghanaian before, but is there a realistic chance that Mikel Arteta's side - who will likely not qualify for the Champions League - can sign him this time around?
It's beginning to look far more likely. That's because Partey's father, Jacob, has confirmed that talks between his son and Arsenal have already commenced.
Speaking in his native Ghana in an interview with Richmond Entsie on Adeiso-based Tru FM, Jacob confirmed that discussions have now moved on to how Atletico will release the player.
“I called my son after hearing the rumours and he told me that the rumours are true," Jacob said, per Ghana Web.
"He told me they are holding talks between him and Arsenal. It all depends on the offer Atletico are demanding. If he goes to Arsenal fine, they have a lot supporters in Ghana.
"I will be happy if he decides to move to Arsenal. What they are discussing now is how Atletico will release him."
Interesting. Partey's release clause in his current Atletico contract stands at £47m, which is more than a fair price for a player of the 26-year-old's calibre.
The Spanish giants are reportedly keen to tie him down to a new deal which would see that release clause doubled - as would his current salary.
Whether Arsenal have the financial power to do battle with Atletico remains to be seen, but it's certainly exciting for the Gunners faithful to hear that negotiations have begun.
Could Partey finally be the Patrick Vieira heir Arsenal have been crying out for?