Arsenal 'close to finalising' deal for USWNT defender | OneFootball

Arsenal are set to sign NJ/NY Gotham FC defender Jenna Nighswonger for a $100,000 (£80,335) transfer fee.

The Athletic have reported that both clubs are 'close to finalising a deal' for the U.S. Women's National Team (USWNT) player, who is out of contract at the end of 2025.

Nighswonger joined Gotham in 2023, earning the badge for the National Women's Socer League's (NWSL) 'Rookie of the Year' in her debut season. The defender signed a three-year deal with the club, but interest from Arsenal will see her depart on an early transfer.

Involved in the USWNT squad that claimed Olympic gold at Paris 2024, the versatile left-footer will join compatriot Emily Fox in north-London.

Katie McCabe has had the left-back position on lockdown for several seasons, but the introduction of Nighswonger will provide Arsenal with much-needed depth and versatility.

Jenna Nighswonger was part of the USWNT's Olympic gold medal winning squad / Daniela Porcelli/ISI Photos/GettyImages

Head coach Renee Slegers made her selection intentions clear last year opting to start Steph Catley in the centre of defence, meaning another wide signing should be most welcomed by fans.

The signing will also provide an opportunity for Slegers to play McCabe further up the pitch, with an injury cloud currently hanging over the head of starting winger Caitlin Foord.

A natural left-back, Nighswonger can also play in central defence or grind out the occasional shift in midfield. Fans will be hoping the deal is done early, providing the side some relief following McCabe's red card suspension for the upcoming blockbuster against Manchester City.

The 24-year-old is not the first American to migrate over to the Women's Super League (WSL) during the January transfer window, following Chelsea's record-breaking acquisition of Naomi Girma.