After lifting the UEFA Women’s Champions League trophy in the 2024/25 season, expectations around Arsenal Women were understandably sky-high heading into the current campaign. However, Renée Slegers’ side have endured a more difficult season than many anticipated.
Arsenal were eliminated from the UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-finals by OL Lyonnes, while Manchester City ultimately secured the Women’s Super League title. With only a top-three finish and Champions League qualification left to fight for, attention has already started to shift towards the summer transfer window.
The club are actively preparing for next season, with several major changes expected both in and out of the squad. Arsenal have already been linked with high-profile names such as Georgia Stanway, while a number of long-serving players could be set to leave North London.
Here is the latest Arsenal Women transfer news, including expected departures, contract extensions and the latest transfer rumours surrounding the Gunners.
Beth Mead leaves Arsenal after nine years
Beth Mead’s time at Arsenal comes to an emotional end after nine memorable years at the club.
Since joining Arsenal from Sunderland in 2017, Mead has become one of the most important players in the club’s modern history. Across 263 appearances, the England international scored 83 goals and helped Arsenal win the Women’s Super League title, three League Cups, the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup and the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Mead established herself as a key figure in Arsenal’s attack almost immediately after arriving in North London and produced countless memorable moments during her time with the Gunners.
One of the standout moments of her Arsenal career came in the Women’s Champions League final against Barcelona, when her assist played a crucial role in Arsenal’s historic 1-0 victory.
According to reports from Kathryn Batte, Arsenal held talks with Mead regarding a possible contract extension. However, the forward is believed to have received more attractive long-term offers elsewhere, making a summer departure increasingly likely.
Victoria Pelova Facing Uncertain Future
Victoria Pelova is another player whose future remains uncertain heading into the summer transfer window. She will depart Arsenal, with her next club unknown.
The Dutch international joined Arsenal from Ajax in January 2023 and quickly impressed supporters with her technical quality and versatility. Pelova adapted well to life in the Women’s Super League and looked set to become a key part of Arsenal’s midfield for years to come.
However, a serious ACL injury disrupted her momentum and made it difficult for the midfielder to rediscover her best form after returning to action.
Despite showing flashes of quality since her comeback, Pelova has struggled to consistently reach the standards she previously displayed. During her time at Arsenal, she has made 87 appearances and scored six goals.
Laia Codina departs Arsenal
Spanish defender Laia Codina is also leaving Arsenal this summer.
Codina joined the Gunners in 2023 and made her debut against Manchester United in the Women’s Super League. Although she showed moments of quality during her time in North London, competition for places in defence limited her opportunities.
The Spain international made 58 appearances for Arsenal and scored four goals during her spell at the club. Her departure leaves Arsenal searching for additional defensive reinforcements ahead of next season.
Arsenal Secure Key Contract Extensions
While several players are leaving the club this summer, Arsenal have also moved quickly to secure the futures of some of their most important stars. The Gunners recently confirmed new contracts for Leah Williamson, Steph Catley and Stina Blackstenius, providing a major boost ahead of next season.
Leah Williamson Commits Future to Arsenal
Vice-captain Leah Williamson remains one of the most influential figures at the club.
A product of Arsenal’s academy, Williamson has spent more than two decades with the Gunners and has made 282 appearances, scoring 17 goals. The England international brings leadership, experience and winning mentality to the squad, having won multiple trophies at club level as well as back-to-back European Championships with England.
Securing Williamson’s future was viewed as a major priority for Arsenal as they continue rebuilding their squad.
Steph Catley and Stina Blackstenius Also Extend Deals
Steph Catley and Stina Blackstenius have also committed their futures to Arsenal.
Catley joined the club from Melbourne City in 2020 and has become a crucial part of Arsenal’s defensive structure. Across 165 appearances, the Australian international has consistently demonstrated her reliability and versatility at the back.
Meanwhile, Blackstenius further cemented her place in Arsenal history by scoring the winning goal against Barcelona in the Women’s Champions League final.
The Swedish striker has scored 64 goals in 152 appearances for Arsenal, underlining why the club were eager to secure her long-term future.
Katie McCabe and Caitlin Foord Futures Still Unclear
There are still question marks surrounding the futures of Katie McCabe and Caitlin Foord.
Arsenal have reportedly offered both players new contracts, but McCabe is believed to be attracting strong interest from both Manchester City and Chelsea. The Republic of Ireland international remains one of Arsenal’s most important players, meaning losing her would represent a significant blow.
Less information is currently available regarding Foord’s situation, although discussions over her future are expected to continue in the coming weeks.
Arsenal Women Preparing for Busy Summer Window
With several departures and multiple key players already signing extensions, Arsenal Women are preparing for a crucial summer transfer window.
After falling short in both the Women’s Super League title race and the UEFA Women’s Champions League this season, the club know significant decisions will be required if they want to return to the top of European football next year.
Supporters can expect plenty more Arsenal Women transfer news in the weeks ahead as the squad begins to take shape for the 2026 season.
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