Arsenal have signed England striker, Alessia Russo, to bolster their front line, following the previous arrival of Cloé Lacasse.

• Arsenal sign Alessia Russo, adding depth to their attack following the earlier acquisition of Cloé Lacasse.
• Russo’s versatility could see her fit into various attacking roles within Arsenal’s formation.
• Russo’s move to Arsenal was previously thwarted by Manchester United’s unwillingness to deal, despite a substantial offer from Arsenal.

Alessia Russo, a key player in England’s triumph at the 2022 Euros, has developed through all the England youth teams from U-15 to the senior level. An incredibly versatile player, Russo can occupy any position in the front line, in both 4-3-3 or 4-4-2 formations.

The question now is, how will Jonas Eidevall use her? Will Russo compete with Stina Blackstenius for the lone striker role, or could they be paired together upfront?

Welcome to the Arsenal family.

Alessia Russo is our new No.23 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/EHItELutGZ

— Arsenal Women (@ArsenalWFC) July 4, 2023

Currently, Frida Maanum occupies a role alongside Blackstenius, often coming from deeper positions. Russo also has experience playing on the wing, predominantly on the right, a role she’s undertaken for both club and country.

Squad depth was a major issue last season, but now, Arsenal boast an impressive array of options for the attacking positions, including Beth Mead, Vivianne Miedema, Katie McCabe, Lina Hurtig, Caitlin Foord, Gio Queiroz, Vicky Pelova, Michelle Agyemang, and more.

The move to bring Russo to Arsenal could have occurred in the previous winter transfer window.

A significant transfer fee was offered, but Manchester United were not interested in a deal.

Beyond excited to have joined The Arsenal ✨ pic.twitter.com/rEEN8BSklg

— Alessia Russo (@alessiarusso7) July 4, 2023

United did attempt to keep Russo, offering her the highest wages in their squad and a five-year contract, but both football and non-football reasons saw her reject the offer.

Now, Russo has committed to Arsenal, bringing her considerable talent to boost Arsenal’s attacking force this season.

She will wear the number 23 shirt.

“I’m really excited to be here and I can’t wait to get going,” Alessia said. “I want to win trophies – as does everyone in this club. I can’t wait to get stuck in and grow as a player – it’s a new challenge and a new environment.”

Alessia continued: “I think the growth of the women’s game has been incredible, but particularly at a club like Arsenal. The sell-out against Wolfsburg at Emirates Stadium last season was fantastic, and I’m just really excited to be part of this club.”

Head Coach Jonas Eidevall said: “Alessia is one of the best forwards in the world and has significant potential to continue growing and improving. She has a proven track record of scoring goals in the WSL and at international level and we believe she will be a quality addition to our forward line, so we’re all delighted to have brought her to the club.”

Head of Women’s Football Clare Wheatley said: “We’re delighted to have signed Alessia and I’m sure our supporters will be excited by this news. Alessia is a very talented footballer who fits the profile of player we want to bring to this club. We believe she has a high ceiling for further development and we are confident that we can go to the next level together.”