Arsenal have reached an agreement to sign England international Georgia Stanway from Bayern Munich on a free transfer, the Guardian understands. The 27-year-old midfielder is set to join the Gunners at the start of July, subject to passing a medical, after her contract with the Frauen Bundesliga club expires this summer.
Stanway's successful stint at Bayern
Bayern Munich confirmed in January that Stanway would depart at the end of her contract, following four successful years in which she helped the club secure four Bundesliga titles. The midfielder has been a pivotal figure for both club and country, scoring 32 goals in 91 appearances for England and playing a key role in their back-to-back European Championship victories and the 2023 World Cup final run.
Widely regarded as one of the best
Stanway, formerly a key player for Manchester City, has earned a reputation as one of the world's top central midfielders. Her commitment and character were praised by Bayern's director of women's football, Bianca Rech, who said in January that Stanway had "stolen our hearts." Rech explained that the club had open discussions about her future and understood her desire for a new challenge.
Arsenal's long-term interest
Arsenal have been monitoring Stanway for several years, identifying her as a target before last summer's Champions League final success. The move is part of the club's succession planning in midfield and their ambition to reclaim the Women's Super League title for the first time since 2019.
Additional signing on the horizon
Arsenal are also close to finalising the signing of Géraldine Reuteler on a free transfer after the Switzerland international's departure from Eintracht Frankfurt was confirmed. Reuteler, an attacking midfielder who can also play as a forward, scored 10 goals this season and has 54 goals and 45 assists in 184 games for Frankfurt. She was a standout performer for the host nation at last summer's European Championship.
Summer departures announced
Arsenal have announced the summer exits of Beth Mead, Katie McCabe, Victoria Pelova, Laia Codina, and goalkeepers Manuela Zinsberger and Naomi Williams.
