Arsenal sign Spain defender Ona Batlle
Arsenal have signed Spain international Ona Batlle on a four-year deal following the conclusion of her time at Barcelona.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Ank kumar
London club Arsenal have officially announced the signing of Spain defender Ona Batlle. The 27-year-old joins the Gunners on a free transfer following the conclusion of her contract with Barcelona.
The deal is understood to be a four-year contract with an option to extend for a further year. Regarded as one of the world's premier full-backs, Batlle brings significant experience, including Champions League success and international pedigree, to the squad.
I'm delighted that we've been able to bring Ona to the club. 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. Renee Slegers, Arsenal Manager
This signing is a cornerstone of Arsenal's revamped recruitment strategy overseen by technical director Jodie Taylor. The club is focusing on early, high-quality acquisitions to evolve their squad, with Batlle set to wear the number 22 shirt.
Batlle is no stranger to English football, having previously spent three successful years at Manchester United, where she made 77 appearances before her move to Barcelona. Her return to the Women's Super League is seen as a major boost for Arsenal as they prepare for the new campaign.