Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Spain full-back Ona Batlle on a free transfer following her departure from Barcelona, continuing the London club's busy start to the summer transfer window. The 27-year-old is their fourth arrival after Georgia Stanway, Selina Cerci and Geraldine Reuteler, who all joined from Bundesliga clubs on free transfers. Arsenal are understood to have been determined to complete much of their business early.
Barcelona exodus sees four Spain internationals leave
Barcelona announced at the end of May that Batlle would leave upon the expiry of her contract. She is one of four members of the Spain squad to depart the Champions League winners on free transfers this summer. Batlle, Alexia Putellas (whose move to London City Lionesses was confirmed on Wednesday), Mapi León (also expected to join London City), and Salma Paralluelo (whose next club is unknown) were all in the Spain starting lineup that comprehensively beat England 4-0 in Mallorca in June.
Batlle's trophy-laden spell at Barcelona
The former Manchester United right-back, who can also play at left-back, made 114 appearances and scored 14 goals for Barcelona during a three-year spell. In that time, she won 11 trophies: three league titles, three Spanish Cups, three Spanish Super Cups and two Champions Leagues. She previously played 77 times for Manchester United before returning to Barcelona, where she began her career in the academy. A World Cup winner with Spain in 2023, she also played in the 2025 European Championship final against England.
Arsenal head coach hails 'winner'
“I’m very happy and excited to get going,” Batlle told Arsenal’s media channels. “Arsenal is one of the biggest clubs in the world and I can’t wait to feel the joy of playing in front of our supporters. I want to win trophies and I feel this is the right place to achieve that.” Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers added: “She’s a hugely experienced full-back with strong attacking intent and great physical attributes. She’s a winner and we want to go for more wins together.”
