Spanish giants Villarreal CF snap up Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey on a free transfer
7th August 2025
Spanish side Villarreal CF have secured the signing of Ghana international Thomas Partey, who returns to La Liga after leaving English club Arsenal.
The 32-year-old midfielder joins as a free agent, penning a two-year deal that includes an initial one-year contract with the option of an additional 12 months.
Partey underwent a successful medical last week, and the club is expected to officially unveil him in the coming days.
The move marks a return to familiar territory for Partey, who rose to prominence during his time at Atlético Madrid before joining Arsenal in 2020.
A key factor in the switch was Villarreal’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League, with the midfielder prioritising a return to Europe’s top-tier competition. He was previously linked with several clubs in Saudi Arabia and across Europe, but opted for a return to Spain.
“Thomas brings experience, composure, and quality in midfield,” a Villarreal source told local media. “He fits perfectly into the club’s ambitions for the upcoming season.”
Partey spent five seasons with Atlético Madrid’s first team, making over 130 appearances in La Liga. At Arsenal, he featured 105 times across all competitions, winning the FA Community Shield and playing a pivotal role in their 2023/24 title challenge.
Capped 47 times by Ghana, Partey is expected to play a key role in Villarreal’s campaign both domestically and in Europe as the club looks to build on