Arsenal women have announced the signing of Austrian Laura Wienroither from TSG 1899 Hoffenheim.

With Arsenal announcing the signing of Stina Blackstenius on Friday, many expected the next announcement to the Brazilian Rafaelle Souza, who is also due to join.

As the club teased the arrival, nobody had a clue who it was going to be, as you can see form the replies to this tweet:

https://twitter.com/ArsenalWFC/status/1482316661604630529

Wienroither is a defender and likely a direct replacement for Anna Patten, who joined Aston Villa on loan.

https://twitter.com/ArsenalWFC/status/1482330163035754498

The 23-year-old has 58 caps for Austria, and five goals.

“It’s an incredible feeling for me.” Laura told Arsenal Media.

“I’m really happy to be here and to have the opportunity and I’m looking forward to being with the team. When I first heard about Arsenal’s interest I couldn’t believe it, and I still can’t believe it!”

“It’s excellent news that we have signed Laura,” said head coach Jonas Eidevall.

“We’ve been very impressed by her defensive performances this season both at club and international level and we believe that she can make a big contribution here at Arsenal.”

“We’re delighted to welcome Laura to the club,” said head of women’s football Clare Wheatley.

“She is a player that we have been tracking for some time and it’s fantastic that she is now here with us.

“Despite being only 23, Laura already has significant experience in both the Frauen-Bundesliga and at international level, so we have no doubt that she will make an important contribution to the team”