Ghanaian Midfielder Thomas Partey Joins Villarreal on Two-Year Deal

Thomas Partey's move to Villarreal

Thomas Partey joins Villarreal on a two-year contract, bringing experience to the team amidst ongoing legal battles. Learn more about the transfer.

Partey's move to Villarreal comes after contract negotiations with Arsenal broke down...

Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey is set to join Villarreal on a two-year contract after leaving Arsenal as a free agent. His decision to join the Yellow Submarine was largely influenced by the prospect of playing in the Champions League, which Villarreal has qualified for after finishing fifth in La Liga last season. Partey is expected to bring valuable experience to the team, addressing a key area of concern for head coach Marcelino Garcia's squad.

Key Details of the Transfer:

• Contract Duration: Two years, with the possibility of extension depending on his performance and legal situation
• Previous Club: Arsenal, where he made 167 appearances and scored nine goals
• Reason for Joining Villarreal: Champions League opportunity and desire to maintain a high level of competition
• Current Legal Situation: Facing charges of five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault in the UK, which he denies

Partey's transfer comes after negotiations for a new deal with Arsenal broke down, leading to his departure from the North London club. He has reportedly undergone medical tests and is expected to be unveiled as a Villarreal player soon. The Ghanaian international will be looking to recapture his form that made him a sought-after midfielder in La Liga during his time with Atlético Madrid.

The 32-year-old Ghanaian midfielder's move to Villarreal also signifies a return to Spain, a country where he initially rose to prominence during his time with Atlético Madrid. This return to La Liga could be an opportunity for Partey to revive his form and showcase his skills once again in a league he knows well. With Villarreal competing in the Champions League, Partey's experience and talent could be valuable assets for the team.

Thomas Partey's decision to join Villarreal was driven by several key factors. Primarily, he prioritized staying competitive at the highest level, particularly with the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching. This move allows him to maintain his form and sharpness, which is crucial for his international career with Ghana.

🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Thomas Partey will join Villarreal as a free agent! He has already completed his medical.

(Source: @David_Ornstein) pic.twitter.com/wiDEeXu193

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) August 3, 2025

Key Reasons for Joining Villarreal:

• Competitive Football: Villarreal's participation in the Champions League offers Partey the opportunity to play against top-tier teams, keeping him competitive and sharp.
• Familiar League: La Liga is a familiar environment for Partey, having played in Spain previously. This comfort and knowledge of the league can aid his transition and performance.
• National Team Selection: By playing in a top league, Partey increases his chances of being selected for the Ghanaian national team, ensuring his continued involvement in international football.

Partey's move to Villarreal comes after contract negotiations with Arsenal broke down, leading to his departure as a free agent. He is set to sign a two-year contract with the Yellow Submarine, despite facing legal challenges in the UK. The Ghanaian midfielder is expected to bring valuable experience to the team.

Thomas Partey became available on a free transfer after contract extension talks with Arsenal broke down earlier this summer. Despite the club's interest in keeping him, the two parties couldn't reach an agreement, leading to Partey's departure after a five-year stint. During his time at Arsenal, Partey made over 100 appearances for the club and earned 53 caps for the Ghana national team.

Partey's Time at Arsenal:

• Contract Expiration: Partey's contract with Arsenal expired at the end of June 2025, marking the end of his five-year tenure.
• Appearances and Goals: He made 167 appearances for the Gunners, scoring nine goals and playing a key role in Arsenal's UEFA Champions League semi-final run.
• Interest from Other Clubs: Several top clubs, including Barcelona, Juventus, and Fenerbahce, showed interest in signing the 32-year-old midfielder.

Partey's departure from Arsenal was confirmed after negotiations for a new deal failed to reach an agreement. The Ghanaian midfielder's future now lies elsewhere, with Villarreal reportedly close to signing him on a two-year deal.

Despite completing his move, Partey’s sporting future is clouded by ongoing legal issues. The midfielder is currently under investigation in the United Kingdom and has been formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, involving three different women with incidents alleged to have occurred between 2021 and 2022.

He is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on August 5, 2025. Partey has denied all charges and has cooperated with authorities throughout the process. Villarreal has not commented on his legal situation since the transfer news broke.

Particular attention will be paid to how Villarreal manage both the on-pitch and off-pitch challenges as they bring in an experienced midfielder facing serious off-field allegations.

For Partey, the move offers an opportunity to relaunch his career in European football while simultaneously preparing to defend himself in a high-profile legal battle.