Mariona Caldeney agreed join in Arsenal this summer after confirming his departure from Barcelona, according to reports.
The 28-year-old started last month’s 2-0 win over Lyon in the Women’s Champions League final, which saw the Catalan giants retain the title thanks to goals from Ballon d’Or Feminin winner Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas, two late-time winners.
Caldeney announced on Wednesday afternoon that he will leave Barcelona when his contract expires at the end of June, having won three Champions League titles, six Liga F titles and 13 other major trophies during his ten-year spell. Sky Sports reports that a deal has been agreed with three-time WSL champions Arsenal.
The Gunners were looking to add another star to Jonas Eidevall’s squad after the surprise announcement that Vivianne Miedema – the WSL’s all-time top scorer with 79 goals – will leave the club at the end of her contract, and Caldeney is confident she has been a success in north London after scoring 114 during his time with Barcelona.
England’s all-time leading goalscorer, and Arsenal striker, Ellen White described the decision to let Miedema leave as “absolutely shocking”, especially as WSL rivals Manchester City have emerged as a possible destination for the 27-year-old.
Arsenal moved quickly after the news of Miedema’s departure by announcing a new contract for fellow striker Stina Blackstenius, and he was joined six days later by captain Leah Williamson in his commitment to the club.
“Everyone knows what Arsenal means to me, but I think that every time I sign a new contract, I feel the passion burning again,” Williamson told the club’s media. “I’m very happy to stay – this is a place where I can continue to grow, develop and be challenged.
“As a team, we are all very focused on bringing more silverware to this club and I can’t wait to get started again when the new season comes.”
Caldeney’s proposed arrival would strengthen Arsenal’s forward line beyond Blackstenius, who boast the likes of Beth Mead, Alessia Russo, Cloe Lacasse and Caitlin Foord – all international stars who have enjoyed success at the highest level of the women’s game.
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