Juventus line up Arsenal star Thomas Partey to replace Paul Pogba if his contract is terminated

Juventus have lined up Arsenal star Thomas Partey to replace Paul Pogba if the France midfielder's contract is terminated, according to reports.

Pogba has been suspended from playing for Juventus after he tested positive for the banned substance testerone. He was called for random testing after Juve's 3-0 win over Udinese in August.

The former Manchester United midfielder will be tried by the National Anti-Doping Tribunal if a second test sample is checked and returns a positive result. If found guilty, Pogba could serve a ban of between two to four years, depending on if any substance use was deemed to be intentional.

In a statement to Sky Sports on Tuesday, Pogba's representatives said: "We are waiting for the counter analysis and until then we can't say anything.

"The certain thing is that Paul Pogba never wanted to break the rules."

Now, according to a new report, Juventus have turned their attentions to Arsenal star Partey in case they are to be without Pogba for a period of time.

Juventus 'target Arsenal star Thomas Partey'

According to Italian outlet La Repubblica (via Get Football News Italy), Juventus are considering Partey as one of their options should they need to replace Pogba in the centre of their midfield.

It is claimed that the Old Lady see the Ghana international as a player that can make an impact, and had already shown interest in the midfielder last summer.

Juve held talks with Arsenal over the signing, but could not agree a fee with the Gunners despite reportedly finalising personal terms with the player.

However, doing a deal in January is said to look 'difficult', despite Partey's current injury status meaning other Arsenal players have the chance to establish themselves in the team in the meantime.

The 30-year-old is currently suffering from a groin injury that he picked up before the 3-1 win over Manchester United. Manager Mikel Arteta believes he will be out 'for a few weeks' - but he will definitely miss this weekend's clash at Everton.