Thomas Partey continues to be closing in on a deal to affix Villarreal after appearing in court for an initial hearing having been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
Partey was charged by the Metropolitan Police just 4 days after his contract with Arsenal expired on July 1.
The Ghanaian international is now set to affix Villarreal and has already undergone his medical with the Champions League side.
Partey is anticipated to affix on an initial 12-month contract with the choice to increase for an additional yr.
The move comes as Partey awaits to face trial for the aforementioned charges, that are alleged to have taken place between 2021 and 2022.
Your ultimate guide to the football season
In The Mixer: Exclusive evaluation, FPL suggestions and transfer talk sent straight to your inbox every week – click here and join before Friday to ensure you do not miss the primary edition.
Here’s the whole lot it’s essential know in regards to the situation.
What are the fees against Thomas Partey?
The five charges of rape relate to 2 women and are alleged to have taken place between April 2021 and June 2022.
The charge of sexual assault was raised by a 3rd alleged victim and is alleged to have taken place in February 2022.
Metropolitan Police began their investigation into Partey in February 2022 after they received a report of rape before bringing charges against the footballer in July 2025.
Partey has previously denied all charges against him.
Can he still play for Villareal despite the court case?
In his first court appearance after being charged, Partey was granted conditional bail following a brief hearing.
His bail conditions include that he cannot contact any of the three women and must notify police of any everlasting changes of address or international travel.
Nonetheless, Partey will still have the option to proceed his playing profession with Villareal, with The Chief Magistrate, Paul Goldspring, saying on Tuesday: ‘I understand he’s not employed on this country and playing in Spain now.’
Being accused or under investigation for any offence doesn’t preclude a player from signing for a La Liga club.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) continues to be waiting for the player’s signing and subsequent registration to be made official.
What happens next?
Partey is scheduled to next appear in court on September 2 on the Old Bailey in London.
Should Partey enter a not guilty plea then the case will proceed to trial.
What have Arsenal said in regards to the case?
Arsenal released a press release on the day that Partey was charged, saying: ‘The player’s contract ended on June 30.
‘As a result of ongoing legal proceedings the club is unable to comment on the case.’
When asked about Arsenal’s handling of the situation in pre-season, Mikel Arteta said he was ‘100 per cent’ confident the club had followed the correct processes.
‘The club was very clear in its statement,’ he added.
‘There are lots of legal matters which might be very complicated so I cannot comment on any of that.’
Arsenal are set to play Villarreal in a pre-season friendly on the Emirates on Wednesday.
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the most recent news on
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
MORE: Michael Owen makes Premier League top-four prediction ahead of latest season
MORE: Arsenal legend Ian Wright sends message to Viktor Gyokeres doubters
MORE: Former Arsenal footballer Thomas Partey in court over rape charges