Jenna Nighswonger has joined Aston Villa on loan from Arsenal for the remainder of the 2025/26 season, with the move including an option to buy.
The 25-year-old left-sided player arrived in north London in January 2025 from Gotham FC, but has now been allowed to complete a switch within the Women’s Super League as she looks for regular first-team football that has been missing since her arrival in England.
Nighswonger made her Arsenal debut on 9 February 2025, featuring in the 2-0 victory over London City Lionesses in the Adobe Women’s FA Cup. Her involvement since has been limited, and the loan offers a chance for consistent minutes at league level.
Aston Villa confirmed the agreement on Saturday, noting that the deal runs until the end of the season and contains a purchase option.
Villa’s Director of Women’s Football, Marisa Ewers, said: “Everyone at Aston Villa is extremely excited to welcome Jenna to the club.
“We have been tracking her for some time and are delighted that she has bought into our exciting project.
“This signing forms part of our growing ambitions as we continue to build an exciting and competitive squad, and we believe Jenna will add real quality to the group and support our goals moving forward.”
Arsenal confirmed the loan on their official channels and wished the player well for the remainder of the season.
Arsenal also recalled Jessie Gale from her loan with Portsmouth to join Bristol City on loan for the rest of the season.