Arsenal Women transfer target Elina Cerci has officially confirmed she will leave TSG Hoffenheim at the end of the season after deciding not to extend her current contract.

The Germany international’s deal expires in June, allowing her to join another club as a free agent ahead of the 2026/27 campaign. Cerci has recently been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal Women, who are expected to be active during the summer transfer window following several key departures.

The Gunners are already preparing for major squad changes, with players such as Beth Mead, Victoria Pelova and Laia Codina all leaving North London this summer.

Cerci’s Impressive Hoffenheim Record

Cerci leaves Hoffenheim after two highly productive seasons in Germany.

The striker made 46 appearances across all competitions and scored an outstanding 34 goals during her time with the club. Her performances saw her win the Bundesliga Golden Boot during the 2024/25 season, and she still has the opportunity to retain the award this year, currently sitting on 16 league goals heading into the final matchday.

Hoffenheim confirmed that Cerci will be honoured alongside the club’s other departing players before their home fixture against RB Leipzig.

Why Arsenal Could Target Elina Cerci

With Arsenal Women losing several attacking players this summer, Cerci’s profile makes her an attractive option for the Women’s Super League side.

The 25-year-old combines intelligent movement, strong finishing ability and experience at the highest level of German football. Her goal-scoring consistency would help strengthen Arsenal’s attack as the club looks to challenge once again for both the Women’s Super League title and the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Signing Cerci on a free transfer would also represent a smart piece of business for Arsenal as they continue reshaping the squad under Renée Slegers.

While no official agreement has been confirmed, reports linking Cerci to Arsenal are continuing to grow stronger ahead of the summer window.

Hoffenheim Move Quickly to Sign Svenja Fölmli

TSG Hoffenheim have already secured a replacement for Cerci by signing Swiss international Svenja Fölmli from SC Freiburg. The forward has signed a three-year contract with Hoffenheim ahead of the 2026/27 season after impressing during her time at Freiburg.

Fölmli scored 34 goals in 67 appearances for Freiburg and established herself as one of the Bundesliga’s most dangerous attacking players. She also gained valuable experience earlier in her career with FC Luzern, where she won the Swiss Cup before moving to Germany.

Switzerland International Adds Experience to Hoffenheim Attack

In addition to her club success, Fölmli has become an important player for the Swiss national team. The 23-year-old has earned 33 caps for Switzerland and represented her country at both the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 and EURO 2025 tournaments.

Her arrival provides Hoffenheim with a versatile attacking option as the club prepares for life after Cerci.

Speaking about the move, Fölmli said:

“I’m very excited about my time at TSG Hoffenheim. During discussions with the club, it quickly became clear that the sporting project and the environment here are the perfect fit for the next step in my career.

“I’m very grateful for the five years I spent at SC Freiburg, but I’m now looking forward to this new chapter at Hoffenheim. My goal is to continue developing together with the team and contribute with my attacking qualities and goals.”

More Arsenal Women Transfer News Expected Soon

With Arsenal expected to continue reshaping their squad this summer, supporters can expect more major transfer developments in the coming weeks.

Whether Elina Cerci ultimately completes a move to North London remains to be seen, but her availability on a free transfer is certain to attract strong interest across Europe.

For Hoffenheim, meanwhile, the signing of Svenja Fölmli signals the beginning of a new era in attack following Cerci’s departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Elina Cerci joining Arsenal Women?

Arsenal have been strongly linked with Elina Cerci, although no official transfer has been confirmed yet.

Why is Elina Cerci leaving Hoffenheim?

Cerci decided not to extend her contract with Hoffenheim and will become a free agent this summer.

Who have Hoffenheim signed to replace Cerci?

Hoffenheim have signed Swiss international Svenja Fölmli from SC Freiburg on a three-year deal.