Arsenal is on the verge of securing the services of centre-back Elisa de Almeida from Paris Saint-Germain for a fee estimated at €600,000 (approximately $697,000). This transfer is expected to be finalized before the women's transfer window closes at 11 PM BST on Thursday.
The acquisition of the 28-year-old defender comes as Arsenal aims to bolster their central defense ahead of the 2026-2027 season. Currently, the team is facing challenges with only three fit centre-backs available. Katie Reid, one of their key defenders, is gradually recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury but is not anticipated to return to action until November, marking nearly a year since she sustained the injury.
De Almeida, who made her move to PSG in 2021, is expected to add significant depth to Arsenal's defensive lineup. In addition to her primary role as a centre-back, she is versatile enough to play as a right-back, a position she has filled while representing the French national team. Her extensive experience includes reaching the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League in the 2023-2024 season, as well as competing in the quarter-finals of both the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup and the 2025 UEFA Women's European Championship.
Arsenal's proactive approach in the transfer market has been evident, having already secured seven new players ahead of the pre-season. Among the notable signings are full-back Ona Batlle from Barcelona, midfielder Georgia Stanway from Bayern Munich, and 19-year-old winger Lisa Baum from RB Leipzig. These strategic additions are aimed at strengthening the squad and enhancing their competitiveness in the upcoming season.
The imminent signing of Elisa de Almeida not only addresses immediate defensive needs but also reflects Arsenal's commitment to building a robust team capable of challenging for titles in both domestic and European competitions. With the transfer window closing soon, fans will be eager to see how this new addition will fit into the team's plans as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
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