by Staff Writer
Thursday, 9th July 2026
West Ham United is delighted to announce the signing of England U20 international Niamh Peacock following her departure from fellow Barclays Women’s Super League side Arsenal.
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The defender has signed a three-year contract with the Hammers, becoming the Club’s sixth addition of the 2026 summer transfer window and putting pen to paper on the first professional deal of her career.
Peacock arrives in east London after spending more than a decade developing through Arsenal’s Academy system and gaining valuable senior experience during loan spells with Watford and Portsmouth last season.
The 18-year-old, who has represented England from U15 through to U20 level and captained the Young Lionesses, is excited to begin the next chapter of her career in Claret and Blue.
“I’m delighted to join West Ham United,” said Peacock.
“This is a big Club, with big ambitions and a passionate fanbase. I felt that coming here was the best fit for me at this moment in my career.
“Signing my first professional contract is a proud moment for me and my family. I can’t wait to develop my game and become a better player and person.”
Having started her youth career at Chelsea before joining Arsenal at the age of nine, Peacock progressed through the Gunners’ ranks and captained their U21 side to the Professional Games Academy Division One title during the 2024/25 season.
The talented centre-back also gained experience around Arsenal’s first team and was included in a senior matchday squad for the first time during an Adobe Women’s FA Cup fixture against Bristol City in January 2025.
During the first half of the 2025/26 campaign, Peacock joined Watford on a dual-registration agreement and made 14 appearances as the Hornets secured the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division title.
She then moved to Portsmouth in January, becoming the first player to sign an Academy Development Registration contract in Barclays Women’s Super League 2. Peacock went on to make seven league appearances, starting six matches, as she continued her development in senior football.
On the international stage, Peacock has been a standout performer for England’s youth teams since making her first appearance for the U15s in 2022. She captained the Young Lionesses, featured at the UEFA Women’s U17 Championship in 2024, helping England finish as runners-up, and also represented her country at the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup later that year.
Head Coach Rita Guarino believes Peacock has all the attributes needed to thrive at West Ham United.
“I’m really happy to bring Niamh to West Ham United,” said Guarino.
“Niamh is a central defender who looks to play forward at every opportunity and has many qualities that we value. We’re pleased that she has chosen West Ham as the place to continue her development.
“Her experience of first-team football with Portsmouth and Watford, alongside her performances for England’s youth teams, will help her transition into our environment and I’m looking forward to working with her.”
Everyone at West Ham United would like to welcome Niamh to the Club and wish her every success in Claret and Blue.
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