Arsenal Women have moved decisively in the transfer market ahead of the 2026-27 season, completing five signings as they look to refresh a squad that needed rejuvenation despite finishing second in the Women’s Super League and reaching the UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-finals.
With experienced players such as Beth Mead, Katie McCabe, Laia Codina and Victoria Pelova departing, the club has focused on bringing in versatile, high-quality replacements capable of making an immediate impact.
Georgia Stanway arrives on a free transfer from Bayern Munich to strengthen Arsenal’s midfield. Since joining Bayern in 2022, she helped the club win four consecutive Frauen-Bundesliga titles along with multiple domestic cups. Her passing ability stands out, having completed more successful passes in the opposition half and into the final third than any other Bundesliga player over the past four seasons. Stanway also contributes in attack, registering 24 league goals and 19 assists, while her experience and leadership should ease the workload on veteran midfielder Kim Little.
Another free addition, Selina Cerci, gives Arsenal greater depth in attack. The Hoffenheim striker scored 32 Bundesliga goals in just 43 appearances after joining the club in 2024, making her the league’s leading scorer during that span. She also recorded 12 assists and ranked among Europe’s most clinical finishers, converting over a quarter of her shots into goals. Her efficiency in front of goal provides Arsenal with another dangerous option alongside Alessia Russo and Stina Blackstenius.
Swiss international Géraldine Reuteler brings remarkable versatility after leaving Eintracht Frankfurt. Comfortable in defensive midfield, attacking midfield, on either wing or as a striker, she has consistently produced strong creative numbers throughout her Bundesliga career. Since 2018, she has ranked among the league’s best for final-third passes, assists and chances created while also contributing regularly with goals, making her an adaptable asset for Renée Slegers’ squad.
Former Barcelona full-back Ona Batlle returns to the Women’s Super League after winning three Liga F titles and two Champions League trophies in Spain. Known for combining defensive solidity with attacking quality, Batlle ranked among Europe’s leading defenders for tackles won in the Champions League over the last three seasons while also producing 16 league assists and nine goals. Equally effective on either flank, she offers Arsenal an ideal replacement following Katie McCabe’s departure and provides valuable tactical flexibility.
The only signing to involve a transfer fee is Lisa Baum, who joins from RB Leipzig for a reported £510,000. The 19-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, becoming the youngest player to score at least six Bundesliga goals last season. A direct winger capable of playing multiple wide roles, Baum impressed with her dribbling, crossing, final-third passing and defensive work rate. Although less experienced than Arsenal’s other recruits, she is viewed as one of Germany’s brightest young prospects with significant room to develop.
Together, Arsenal’s five arrivals strengthen every area of the pitch. Stanway adds control and balance in midfield, Cerci increases the team’s goalscoring threat, Reuteler offers creativity and versatility, Batlle reinforces the defence with elite experience, and Baum provides youthful energy and long-term potential. Collectively, the signings represent a comprehensive rebuild designed to keep Arsenal competitive both domestically and in Europe.
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