Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is close to completing a move to Spanish side Villarreal, following the end of his five-year tenure at the Emirates Stadium.
The Ghanaian international became a free agent after his contract with Arsenal expired on June 30.
According to The Athletic, he has already undergone a medical and is expected to sign a two-year deal with Villarreal, keeping him at the La Liga club until 2027.
Partey, who previously played for Atlético Madrid, was in discussions over a potential contract extension with the Gunners.
Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is close to completing a move to Spanish side Villarreal, following the end of his five-year tenure at the Emirates Stadium
|PA
However, no agreement was reached.
The 32-year-old remains under intense legal scrutiny following serious allegations made against him.
Just four days after leaving Arsenal, he was formally charged with five counts of rape involving two women, and an additional charge of sexual assault relating to a third woman.
Partey denies all accusations. His legal representative, Jenny Wiltshire, said: “Thomas Partey denies all the charges against him.
JUST IN: Wayne Rooney's son brutally trolled by football rival with mum Coleen and father watching on
"He has fully cooperated with the police and CPS throughout their three-year investigation.
"He now welcomes the opportunity to finally clear his name.
"Given that there are now ongoing legal proceedings, my client is unable to comment further.”
The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed that charges were brought following an extensive review of the evidence submitted by investigators.
READ MORE: EFL stadium EVACUATED on opening day as two air ambulances land on the pitch
Thomas Partey was a key player for Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta last season
| GettyThe alleged offences date back to a police investigation launched in February 2022, with Partey originally arrested in July of that year.
Despite being under investigation, he remained active in Arsenal’s squad as the legal process continued.
Partey is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, August 5.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Throughout the 2024–25 season, Partey was a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad, making 52 appearances across all competitions.
In addition to his regular role in midfield, he also filled in at right-back to help cover for injuries during a difficult period for Arsenal’s defence.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has defended the club's decision to play Thomas Partey prior to his departure
|PA
During his time at the club, Partey made 167 appearances, scored nine goals and registered seven assists.
Arteta previously defended the club’s handling of the matter, stating he was '100 per cent' confident all proper procedures were followed.