Villarreal sign Thomas Partey on free transfer

Villarreal CF have signed Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey following the expiration of his contract with Arsenal. The 32-year-old joins the La Liga side on a free transfer. Partey has signed a two-year agreement, structured as a one-year contract with the option to extend for an additional 12 months. Official confirmation from Villarreal is expected imminently.

🚨 Villarreal complete acquisition of Thomas Partey as free agent. 32yo midfielder has signed 2yr deal at #VillarrealCF after departing Arsenal when terms ended. Ghana international’s arrival set to be officially confirmed. W/ @GuillermoRai_ @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/CyS3DAm6Z5

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 7, 2025

Transfer Dependent on Villarreal's Champions League Qualification

According to The Athletic, the midfielder completed his medical earlier this month, with Villarreal's Champions League qualification playing a crucial role in Partey's decision to join the Spanish club.

Ongoing Legal Proceedings: Partey Denies Charges

Partey appeared in Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday and has been granted conditional bail in a five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault case. As per bail conditions, he must notify the police 24 hours in advance of any international travel.

Partey’s Arsenal Legacy: 167 Appearances in Five Years

Partey joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020 for a reported €50 million (£45.4m, $58.7m). He made 167 appearances for the Gunners, including 52 matches last season under Mikel Arteta. Though primarily a central midfielder, Partey was also deployed at right-back during his Arsenal spell and was instrumental in the team.