Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Teye Partey has completed a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Shabab in the ongoing summer transfer window.
The 33-year-old arrived in Riyadh early this week to finalize the switch to the six-time Saudi champions as a free agent after leaving Spanish La Liga club Villarreal following the expiration of his one-year contract in June.
Partey reportedly sign a one-year deal with the White Lions after undergoing his mandatory medical examination.
The move ends weeks of speculation about the former Arsenal and Atletico Madrid midfielder’s next destination. Partey brings a wealth of top-level experience, having previously starred for Atletico Madrid and made 130 appearances for Arsenal, scoring nine goals, before joining Villarreal for the 2025/26 season where he featured 25 times across all competitions.
The Ghana deputy captain was also part of the Black Stars squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, featuring in three matches as Ghana progressed to the Round of 32.
His arrival is expected to add experience and steel to the Al-Shabab midfield as the club aims to improve on last season and push for a top-four finish.
The transfer is seen as a major boost for Partey as Ghana prepares for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers scheduled to begin in September, with the midfielder expected to play a leadership role as the Black Stars seek a return to the tournament.
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