Thomas Partey signs two-year deal to complete free transfer to Villarreal after Arsenal exit and rape charges

Following negotiations with Villarreal, the 32-year-old has joined the Spanish side on a one-year deal with the option of an extra 12 months. The Ghana international will join the Yellow Submarine on a free transfer following the expiration of his Arsenal contract.

This comes days after Partey appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court and was granted conditional bail after being charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault on July 4. The ex-Atletico Madrid man, who has to inform police of any international travel he makes 24 hours in advance, denies the charges. 

Villarreal have faced criticism from sections of the club's fanbase for pursuing the Ghana midfielder, who was in discussions with Arsenal over a new deal but those talks eventually broke down. Cesar Pena, president of the Villarreal supporters’ club in Villafranca de Barros, Extremadura, believes the Spanish outfit should not be trying to recruit a player accused of "such serious crimes".

Partey's new side - who beat Arsenal 3-2 in a friendly on Wednesday - round off their pre-season schedule against Aston Villa on Sunday, before beginning their La Liga campaign on August 15 at home to Oviedo.