Thomas Partey has been granted bail following his court appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, clearing the way for a move to his next club.
The Ghana international has been formally charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault, relating to incidents alleged to have occurred between 2021 and 2022.
Partey, who has strongly denied all allegations, has been released under strict conditions, which allow him to travel while legal proceedings continue.
Amid the ongoing case, Partey’s professional future appears to be taking shape. According to several well-placed sources, the former Arsenal midfielder is on the verge of signing with Spanish side Villarreal.
The reported agreement involves a one-year deal with an option to extend for a further season, marking a potential return to La Liga for the 31-year-old.
Although no official statement has yet been made, the deal is said to be complete, pending confirmation from both parties. Villarreal, who have secured a place in the upcoming UEFA Champions League campaign, view Partey as a key addition to their squad as they prepare for domestic and European competition.
The finalization of the move had been on hold as Partey awaited the court’s decision regarding his bail. With that now granted, sources close to the negotiations suggest that an official announcement is likely to follow soon, as the midfielder prepares to resume his playing career.
Partey’s situation has placed both his personal and professional life under intense scrutiny. Nevertheless, the terms of his bail do not restrict international travel, enabling him to meet his contractual obligations abroad should the Villarreal transfer go through as expected.
Once a central figure at Arsenal, Partey’s time in North London has come to an end amid uncertainty and off-pitch complications.
His possible return to Spain — where he previously played for Atlético Madrid — would mark a new chapter in his career, albeit under the cloud of an ongoing legal process.
Villarreal, known for their strategic recruitment, appear to be banking on Partey’s experience and proven capabilities in midfield.
The club’s management is understood to be fully aware of his legal situation and remains committed to the signing, pending further developments.
While the court case continues, Partey is expected to maintain a low profile until proceedings progress further.
The bail conditions are yet to be publicly detailed, but the player is legally permitted to train and travel, which may accelerate his integration into his prospective new team.
As the football world watches closely, the coming days are likely to provide further clarity on both Partey’s legal status and his anticipated move to Villarreal.
For now, he remains a player in transition — navigating complex legal challenges while preparing for a potential return to top-level football.
