Villarreal have signed former Arsenal and Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey on a free transfer. The 32-year-old Ghana international has agreed a two-year deal, structured as an initial one-year contract with an option for a further year.
Partey leaves Arsenal following the expiration of his contract in June, ending a five-year spell in north London where he made 167 appearances, including 52 last season. He joined the Gunners in 2020 for €50 million from Atletico Madrid, where he previously made 188 appearances.
His move to Villarreal follows the club’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League, a key factor in his decision. The Athletic reported the deal was finalised after Partey completed his medical.
Currently, Partey is facing serious legal issues. He was charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault on July 4, which he denies. The investigation began in February 2022, and he had continued playing for Arsenal during the process. He recently appeared in court and was granted conditional bail, which includes notifying authorities 24 hours in advance of any international travel.
Earlier this year, Arsenal and Partey were in talks over a contract extension, but the two parties failed to reach an agreement.
