Freya Godfrey, a rising star in Arsenal’s ranks, is set to ink her first professional contract, demonstrating the successful youth development at Arsenal.

Chelsea's English midfielder Grace Palmer (C) vies with Arsenal's Freya Godfrey (R) during the pre-season friendly women's football match between Arsenal and Chelsea at The Emirates Stadium in north London on August 1, 2021. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP) (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Chelsea’s English midfielder Grace Palmer (C) vies with Arsenal’s Freya Godfrey (R) during the pre-season friendly women’s football match between Arsenal and Chelsea at The Emirates Stadium in north London on August 1, 2021. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP) (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
  • Freya Godfrey, an England U19 international, is set to sign her first professional contract with Arsenal.
  • Godfrey has reportedly turned down offers from three WSL clubs, choosing to stay with Arsenal.
  • The young forward spent the previous season on loan at Ipswich and recently made her senior debut for Arsenal.

One of the most promising young talents in the Women’s Super League, Freya Godfrey, is on the cusp of a significant career milestone.

This week, the England U19 international is set to sign her first professional contract with Arsenal, despite reportedly turning down offers from three other WSL clubs.

Godfrey, who recently turned 18, has been a shining star in Arsenal’s youth ranks. Her potential was further demonstrated during a successful loan spell with Ipswich Town, which culminated in her return to the Gunners and a well-deserved senior debut during Arsenal’s 4-0 victory over Brighton on May 10. Her performances indicate a bright future, with potential to become a regular in the senior team.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 01: Jonas Eidevall, Head Coach of Arsenal, looks dejected following their side's defeat to VfL Wolfsburg during the UEFA Women's Champions League semi-final 2nd leg match between Arsenal and VfL Wolfsburg at Emirates Stadium on May 01, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 01: Jonas Eidevall, Head Coach of Arsenal, looks dejected following their side’s defeat to VfL Wolfsburg during the UEFA Women’s Champions League semi-final 2nd leg match between Arsenal and VfL Wolfsburg at Emirates Stadium on May 01, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

“Freya Godfrey is a tremendous young talent with a promising future in the game,” Arsenal Women’s coach Jonas Eidevall was quoted saying. The coach is yet to decide whether another loan move is in the cards for Godfrey.

Interestingly, the current FA rules allow players in the women’s game to move before signing their first professional contract at 18 without their club receiving a fee. It’s a regulation that several WSL clubs, including Arsenal, have urged the FA to reconsider in the past two years.

Nonetheless, the Gunners are undoubtedly pleased to secure Godfrey’s signature, as her departure without a fee would have been a significant loss for the club.

As Arsenal continues its commitment to nurturing young talent, we can look forward to watching Freya Godfrey’s progression in the upcoming seasons.