Former Arsenal star close to joining La Liga club as free agent

Former Arsenal star Thomas Partey has been linked with moves to the Spanish La Liga club Villarreal as free agent amid charges of alleged rape and sexual assault.

Recall that Partey departed Emirate Stadium at the end of last season after the expiry of his contract.

He, has, however, being charged with five counts of rape and one of sexual assault.

Amid his ongoing trial, Partey, who is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, is set to sign a deal with Villarreal before then.

The Athletic reported that Partey has now completed a medical with the Villarreal, whom he is set to pen a two-year contract with until the end of the 2026-27 season.

Partey’s second return to La Liga comes five years after leaving Atletico Madrid for Arsenal in 2020.

During his time at the North London club, the Ghanaian scored nine goals and created seven assists in 167 matches.

He played a major role in Arsenal’s rise to Premier League title contenders, making 52 appearances in all competitions last campaign.

The Gunners disclosed that they had plans to extend Partey’s contract but an agreement was not reached between the two parties.