Arsenal are closing in on signing Smilla Holmberg from Hammarby IF, according to Sportbladet. The right-back has attracted interest from several clubs, but the Gunners are reportedly leading the race. The deal is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks.
Arsenal had already expressed their interest in Holmberg during the summer transfer window, but their offer at that time was rejected. The 19-year-old has already earned seven caps for the Swedish national team and is included on the Golden Girl list of Europe’s top young talents. Holmberg was also one of the players selected for Sweden’s squad at the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025.
What options does Arsenal have at right back?
Arsenal’s most frequently used option at right-back is Emily Fox. The USWNT international has barely missed a game since joining in January 2024 and has already scored two goals for the club.
Then there are full-backs Taylor Hinds and Jenna Nighswonger, although the latter has struggled for minutes under Renée Slegers.
On the left, Arsenal usually rely on Katie McCabe and Steph Catley, while Leah Williamson, Laia Codina, Lotte Wubben-Moy, and Katie Reid are primarily used as centre-backs. It will be interesting to see whether Holmberg is viewed as a potential replacement for Nighswonger, who has yet to establish herself in the team.
Arsenal’s start to the 2025/25 season
As reigning Champions of Europe, expectations were high for Arsenal this season, their first full campaign under head coach Renée Slegers, who replaced Jonas Eidevall last year. The team began the 2025/26 season with two convincing wins over London City and West Ham United, but failed to maintain that momentum against Manchester United and Aston Villa. Arsenal then suffered defeats to Manchester City and Olympique Lyonnais in the Women’s Champions League.
Since then, Slegers’ side have bounced back with three consecutive wins across both competitions. Arsenal currently sit fifth in the Women’s Super League and tenth in the UWCL group standings.
Leave a Reply