Thomas Partey, the former Arsenal midfielder, is reportedly on the verge of completing his transfer to Villarreal within the next few days, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.
Coinciding with this development, Partey is scheduled to attend his initial hearing at Westminster Magistrates` Court on Tuesday. He faces five charges of rape and one of sexual assault, involving three different women, with alleged incidents occurring between 2021 and 2022. Partey has consistently denied all accusations.
The 32-year-old Ghanaian international was formally charged on July 4th, shortly after his contract with Arsenal expired. Now, he is poised to resume his football career, with an official unveiling as a Villarreal player anticipated soon. Sources indicate Partey has successfully passed his medical examination and agreed to a two-year contract.
Although Partey garnered interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, his decision to join Villarreal is reportedly influenced by the prospect of playing in the Champions League next summer. Before his stint at Arsenal, the Ghanaian international spent eight years in Spain, beginning with Leganes and then moving to Atletico Madrid, which included loan periods at Mallorca and Almeria.
Partey`s initial arrest occurred in July 2022, and the recent charges stem from an investigation by the Metropolitan Police that has spanned over three years. Despite the ongoing inquiry, the midfielder continued to feature for Arsenal until his contract concluded. Discussions regarding an extension to his 2020 contract had taken place. He departs the North London club having made 167 appearances.
