Transfer market: Thomas Partey to Villarreal, it's a done deal!

Out of contract with Arsenal, Thomas Partey is ready to turn the page on the Premier League and return to La Liga. According to multiple sources, the Ghanaian midfielder has reached an agreement with Villarreal in Spain’s top flight.

After joining London in 2022 from Atlético de Madrid, Partey gradually carved out a role for himself in Mikel Arteta’s squad. An essential piece in the Gunners’ midfield, he delivered a string of solid performances (167 matches, 9 goals, and 7 assists), before being hampered by injuries. With his contract expiring this summer, the 32-year-old’s time at Arsenal comes to an end, even though an extension once seemed possible. Negotiations with the London club ultimately fell through.

In search of a new challenge, the Ghanaian is set to return to a league he knows well. Indeed, Thomas Partey is close to signing a two-year deal with the Yellow Submarine. The former Atlético de Madrid midfielder has reportedly already passed his medical. He could even make his debut for Villarreal against none other than Arsenal, in a friendly scheduled at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

Lydiane N'Po |

Editorfr, en

Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.