Arsenal Complete Deadline-Day Deal for French Defender Elisa de Almeida

Arsenal have confirmed the deadline‑day acquisition of French defender Elisa de Almeida from Paris Saint‑Germain.

French sources indicate the transfer fee is around £550,000, making her the club’s eighth summer signing.

De Almeida has agreed to a three‑year contract and was identified as a priority target late in the window due to defensive injuries.

The versatile 28‑year‑old can operate as a centre‑back, a position where Arsenal currently have just three fit players for the season opener.

Young England centre‑back Katie Reid is recuperating from an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and is not expected to return before November.

“This is a very big club and I can’t wait to get started,” said De Almeida.

“I grew up watching Arsenal and seeing French players wear this jersey, so I’m proud to take this step.”

“I’m looking forward to playing in front of our supporters and experiencing the special atmosphere they have created.”

De Almeida spent five years at PSG, making more than 154 appearances and gaining experience in the Women’s Champions League.

She began her career in France with Paris FC, had a spell at Montpellier, before joining PSG.

The defender has earned 52 caps for France and was part of the squads at the 2023 Women’s World Cup and Euro 2025.

“We’re very pleased to add Elisa to our squad,” said Arsenal head coach Renee Slegers.

“Her composure, mobility and experience are all strengths in her game and I look forward to working with her on the training pitch.”

The Gunners, aiming to clinch their first WSL title since 2019, have also bolstered the squad this summer with the arrivals of England midfielder Georgia Stanway and Spain full‑back Ona Batlle.

Slegers’ side open their campaign at Brighton on Sunday, 6 September at 12:00 BST.

Source link