As exclusively reported by Arseblog News on Sunday, Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Katie McCabe from Arsenal on a free transfer. Arsenal did offer McCabe a new contract towards the end of last season, however, the offer from Chelsea proved to be more attractive from a sporting perspective.
Our understanding is that Arsenal were honest with McCabe about the role she might play going forwards and that the player preferred the vision for her offered by Chelsea, who have been long-term admirers. There is also a family connection, McCabe grew up as a Chelsea fan due to her love of Damien Duff and her brother and nephews are Chelsea fans.
We also understand that the player wanted a new challenge in a new environment but at the highest level. Our understanding remains that Arsenal had not offered McCabe a deal but her performances at centre-back caused them to reconsider given the acknowledgement that the squad needs to be bigger with greater versatility next season. However, McCabe felt the time was right for a new challenge.