Ghana’s Thomas Partey has joined Villarreal after leaving Arsenal.

The 32-year-old, who joined the Gunners from Atletico Madrid in 2020 for £45m, departed the Premier League club in June. Just days later, he was charged with five counts of rape involving two women, as well as one count of sexual assault relating to a third woman, Sport360NG reports.

Partey, who denies all allegations, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where he was granted conditional bail. His bail terms include avoiding contact with the alleged victims and informing police of any change of address or plans for international travel.

Villarreal confirmed the signing in a statement acknowledging the ongoing legal case in England. The club stressed its awareness of the situation, adding that Partey “firmly maintains his innocence” and that it upholds the presumption of innocence until the judicial process is complete.

The statement also noted that, due to English legal restrictions on commenting during ongoing proceedings, the club would not be making further remarks.

Police investigations into the allegations began in February 2022. Meanwhile, nearly 1,000 people have signed a petition organised by fan platform The Villarreal Report opposing the midfielder’s arrival.

Villarreal reiterated its “strong commitment to respect and diversity” and condemned “all forms of violence, including gender-based violence, discrimination, racism, and xenophobia.”

Partey is expected to link up with his new teammates on Friday and is due in court at the Old Bailey on 2 September. His transfer comes a day after Villarreal’s 3-2 friendly victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.