Arsenal have completed the signing of Germany international Selina Cerci from TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, with the forward scoring 34 goals in 47 appearances across two seasons for the Frauen Bundesliga side. The 26-year-old becomes Arsenal's second acquisition from the German top flight this summer, following the free transfer of Georgia Stanway from Bayern Munich.
Cerci hailed as 'great addition' by Arsenal head coach
Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers expressed her delight at the arrival of Cerci, describing her as a player with impressive goalscoring numbers and strong physical attributes. "I'm so pleased that Selina will be joining our group," said Slegers. "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."
Cerci, who has also played for Werder Bremen and Bayern Munich's second team, expressed her excitement about the move. "I'm very excited to be here – it's a big honour to play for Arsenal and I can't wait to start. This is an opportunity to compete against and play alongside top players in one of the best leagues in the world," she said.
Proven international record
Cerci has scored five goals in 20 appearances for Germany since making her senior international debut in February 2022. She was part of Germany's squad at last year's European Championship. Arsenal's director of football, Clare Wheatley, expressed confidence in Cerci's ability to adapt to English football. "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. We welcome her and her family to the club," Wheatley said.
Kaneryd joins Lyon from Chelsea
In other transfer news, OL Lyonnes have confirmed the signing of Sweden winger Johanna Rytting Kaneryd from Chelsea. The Guardian reported in June that the French side were close to completing the deal. Kaneryd, 29, played 139 times for Chelsea, scoring 17 goals and providing 26 assists, and helped the club win seven major trophies, including three Women's Super League titles, two FA Cups and two League Cups. She has signed a three-year contract with Lyon, who were runners-up in last season's Women's Champions League.
