Arsenal are on course to sign Barcelona full back Ona Battle when her contract expires in the summer according to a new report.
The Gunners are on the warpath to try and defend their Women’s Champions League crown, with only French giants OL Lyonnes standing between them and the final, where either Battle’s Barcelona or Bayern Munich will meet them in Oslo.
Arsenal Strengthen With Major Coup
With their chances at a first Women’s Super League title since 2019 are on the brink due to Manchester City‘s superior points tally, Renee Slegers’ side are planning for the expansion of the league next season by planning additions.
According to ESPN Deportes, Arsenal have already begun strengthening as they push towards a free agent signing for right-back Ona Battle, who is set to leave Barcelona at the end of this campaign.
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The 26-year-old has been a star in an imperious Catalan side, heading on course to win a third domestic treble in a row since her arrival from Manchester United back in 2023.
Barcelona have pushed in recent months to try and reach an agreement for their number 22, but have ultimately failed with Battle closing in on finalising an agreement to move to North London and the Catalans have already begun exploring alternatives in the upcoming transfer market.
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She played all 90 minutes in Spain’s recent trip to England during the international break during World Cup Qualification, losing 1-0 to the Lionesses, having also played a major part in the 2023 World Cup Final which ended in victory for La Roja.
Big Signing But At Some Cost
With Arsenal once again faltering in their hopes to win the WSL once more, it seems that they are already gearing up for a big summer in order to redeem themselves at a time when Chelsea are on the backfoot.
Ona Battle is one of the world’s best full-backs and having her, alongside Katie McCabe on the other side of defence, gives Renee Slegers perhaps one of the best backlines in the world heading into next season.
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However, the expected arrival of Battle does come at some cost, with January signing Smilla Holmberg set to lose her place after what has been a really bright start for the 19-year-old.
While the Swede can play further forward, with Chloe Kelly and Olivia Smith competing in the wide areas for the Gunners, game time may be hard to come by for Holmberg.
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Thankfully, with an expanding WSL on the horizon, there should be a lot more rotation and opportunities given to players next season, meaning that her development may not be hindered.