Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal Women are reportedly preparing to open talks with 24-year-old German goalkeeper Anneke Borbe, following her departure from VfL Wolfsburg earlier this summer, according toThe Gooner Fanzine. The reigning UEFA Women’s Champions League winners are seeking to reinforce their goalkeeping options ahead of a demanding 2025/26 campaign.
Borbe became a free agent after being released by Wolfsburg despite having a contract until 2025. The decision followed the club’s acquisition of Stina Johannes from Eintracht Frankfurt as their new first-choice goalkeeper. Alongside Borbe, established starter Merle Frohms also exited the club in a significant shake-up under head coach Tommy Stroot.
During the 2024/25 season, Borbe emerged as Wolfsburg’s number one midway through the campaign, making 10 appearances in the Frauen-Bundesliga and keeping four clean sheets. She also featured in three UEFA Women’s Champions League matches, including the quarter-final against Barcelona. Her performances earned her recognition as a calm and commanding presence between the posts, known for her aerial ability and precise distribution, traits that suit Arsenal’s possession-focused approach under manager Renée Slegers.
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Arsenal’s interest in Borbe comes at a time of possible transition in their goalkeeping department. First-choice goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger is approaching the end of her contract and could depart this summer, while Kaylan Marckese continues her recovery from a long-term ACL injury. Canadian international Sabrina D’Angelo has also been linked with a move away from the club.
Anneke Borbe
Anneke Borbe (Image credit: Getty Images)
According to reporter Freddie Cardy, Arsenal and other European clubs are expected to begin formal discussions with Borbe next week. The fact that she is available on a free transfer makes her an appealing option for the Gunners, who are looking to maintain squad depth and quality as they gear up for a busy season featuring Women’s Super League matches at the Emirates and a Champions League title defence.
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Borbe, who hails from Pinneberg, made her Frauen-Bundesliga debut at just 16 with Werder Bremen. She played a key role in their promotion-winning 2019/20 season before moving to Wolfsburg in 2023, where she rose from third-choice to starter in less than a year.
In addition to Borbe, Arsenal have also been linked with Dutch goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar, signalling a commitment to ensuring strong competition in goal moving forward.
While no official confirmation has been made by the club, Borbe’s combination of youth, top-level experience, and tactical fit makes her a standout candidate as Arsenal continue to strengthen for sustained domestic and European success.
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