Speculation around Arsenal full-back Jenna Nighswonger has kept the rumour mill busy for some time. According to [Arseblog](https://awnewsletter.arseblog.com/hinds-holmberg-and-slegers-having-four-full-backs/), Nighswonger is expected to leave either on loan or on a permanent deal this January. Renée Slegers’ side currently has a top right-back in Emily Fox, with Smilla Holmberg serving as backup should the transfer go through. On the left, Katie McCabe remains the starting defender, with newly recruited Taylor Hinds available as her backup.
With these recent arrivals and potential departures, it’s clear that head coach Slegers is shaping her backline the way she wants, ensuring she can start what she considers top-quality full-backs every match. Unfortunately for Jenna Nighswonger, she does not appear to be one of them.
The full-back joined the Gunners in the January 2025 transfer window, arriving from Gotham FC after being drafted by the club in 2023. During her time at Gotham, she made 46 appearances and scored four goals, helping the team secure the 2023 NWSL Championship.
Upon signing for the club, Nighswonger said: “I’m so happy to be here,” said Jenna. “I’ve always wanted to play in England and joining such a historic football club is a dream come true. I want to win trophies with this club and help the team in any way possible. It’s an incredible feeling to be able to call myself an Arsenal player and I can’t wait to get started.”
Arsenal are closing in on signing Smilla Holmberg from Hammarby IF, according to [Sportbladet](https://www.aftonbladet.se/sportbladet/fotboll/a/alXA2O/avslojar-arsenal-vantas-vinna-dragkampen-om-smilla-holmberg). The right-back has attracted interest from several clubs, but the Gunners are reportedly leading the race. The deal is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks.
Arsenal had already expressed their interest in Holmberg during the summer transfer window, but their offer at that time was rejected. The 19-year-old has already earned seven caps for the Swedish national team and is included on the Golden Girl list of Europe’s top young talents. Holmberg was also one of the players selected for Sweden’s squad at the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025.