Alessia Russo completes Arsenal move following Man United exit

The 24-year-old forward has also played for Chelsea

Arsenal have completed the signing of England forward Alessia Russo after her contract with Manchester United expired. The 24-year-old has 21 caps for the international team.

Arsenal had made two bids in January to acquire her services. However, Manchester United rejected both bids, including a bid with a world-record fee. Now, the English forward has signed to free for the North London club.

Russo scored 10 goals in 20 appearances in the Women's Super League 2022-23. Man United women finished runners-up behind her former side Chelsea.

The 24-year-old made 46 appearances for the Red Devils in three seasons in the Women's Super League and scored 22 goals. She has even scored 11 goals for her national side.

Alessia Russo played a great role in England women's Euro 2022 triumph. The young striker scored four goals in the tournament.

"I'm really excited to be here and I can't wait to get going," said the forward on joining the club.

She added, "I want to win trophies - as does everyone in this club. I can't wait to get stuck in and grow as a player - it's a new challenge and a new environment.

"I think the growth of the women's game has been incredible, but particularly at a club like Arsenal.

"The sell-out against Wolfsburg at Emirates Stadium last season was fantastic and I'm just really excited to be part of this club."

Russo will play for England in the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. She will look to win the biggest competition and add another national silverware to her name.

As per Sky Sports, United had been negotiating over the renewal of her contract for the past 18 months and both parties were on the verge of reaching an agreement last week but talks were stalled and she opted to leave the club.

Arsenal's head of football Clare Wheatley said:

"We're delighted to have signed Alessia and I'm sure our supporters will be excited by this news.

"Alessia is a very talented footballer who fits the profile of player we want to bring to this club.

"We believe she has a high ceiling for further development and we are confident that we can go to the next level together."

The Gunners beat several other European clubs to sign the English forward.