Arsenal confirm transfer for 'important' player after loan spell

Arsenal Women have confirmed the permanent signing of Chloe Kelly.

Kelly, 27, initially joined the club on loan from Manchester City in January, and the winger made 13 appearances during that spell, scoring twice and assisting another six goals as they won the Champions League.

She became a free agent at the end of last month when her contract expired, and Kelly now returns to Arsenal permanently, seven-and-a-half years after leaving for Everton.

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The confirmation comes on the day that the Euro 2025 starts. Kelly is part of the 23-player Lionesses squad, whose tournament begins with a match against France.

"Putting pen to paper on a permanent contract at Arsenal is a standout moment for me," Kelly told the Arsenal website.

"Learning from an incredible manager and continuing to build relationships with an excellent team is a journey I'm looking forward to continuing.

"I'm excited for more silverware at this special club and to bring more trophies back to north London to celebrate with our supporters. I've always said that Arsenal supporters are the best and to have them on my side, singing my name, means so much to me."

"We're thrilled to keep Chloe at Arsenal," the club's director of women’s football, Clare Wheatley, said.

"Chloe's application, attitude and performances were outstanding throughout her loan spell last season and we are delighted to continue working together as we gear up for an exciting 2025/26 campaign.

"I know our supporters have been waiting patiently for this one and I'm sure they'll join me in welcoming Chloe home to north London."

Gunners head coach Renee Slegers added: "I'm delighted that we’ve been able to make Chloe a permanent signing for us.

"She had a great impact for us and played an important role in what we achieved here last season, and I know she shares our ambition to compete for more."