Arsenal Women have completed the signing of forward Selina Cerci from Hoffenheim. The Germany international, 26, arrives as needed attacking reinforcement following the departure of Beth Mead, who joined Manchester City this summer after a decade in north London.

What happened?

Cerci has signed a two-year contract with the option for an extra season. She becomes Arsenal’s second signing of the summer after Georgia Stanway’s transfer from Bayern Munich was confirmed in early July.

Why it matters for Arsenal Women

Head coach Renee Slegers said: “I’m so pleased that Selina will be joining our group. She has impressive goalscoring numbers and brings good presence, physicality and forward intent. Combined with her strong work ethic, we feel these qualities make her a great addition to our squad.”

What comes next?

Arsenal have recruited top-level players at the end of their existing contracts in recent years, such as Alessia Russo’s signing from Manchester United in 2023. With 51 points from 22 games, and a recent form of WWWDW, Arsenal Women are currently 2nd in the FA WSL, 4 points behind leaders Manchester City W, and will look to utilize Cerci’s skills to close the gap. Cerci has scored 16 goals and provided nine assists in 23 matches last season, and has 62 Bundesliga goals in 110 appearances across four clubs. Director of women’s football Clare Wheatley said: “We’re delighted to complete the signing of Selina. She’s an instinctive goalscorer with a proven record in the Bundesliga, and we believe she’s in a strong position to transition to English football and Arsenal.