Al Shabab Sign Ghana Midfielder Thomas Partey On Free Transfer

Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab have completed the signing of Ghana international Thomas Partey on a free transfer.

The experienced defensive midfielder travelled to Saudi Arabia on Thursday to finalise the move. Official confirmation came via reports from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, with Al Shabab releasing a welcome graphic featuring Partey in the club’s black-and-white colours, draped in the Ghana flag.

Partey, 33, becomes a free agent after his one-year contract with Spanish side Villarreal expired this summer. He made around 25 appearances for the Yellow Submarine in the 2025/26 season across all competitions.

Before that, the Ghanaian spent five seasons at Arsenal following a high-profile move from Atlético Madrid in 2020. He recorded 130 appearances and nine goals for the Gunners before departing as a free agent in 2025.

The deal adds significant midfield experience to Al Shabab’s squad as they prepare for the new Saudi Pro League campaign. 

Partey is expected to provide defensive solidity and leadership, drawing on his background in La Liga, the Premier League, and international duty with the Black Stars.

Further details on the length of the contract have not yet been disclosed.