Arsenal have completed the signing of Germany international Selina Cerci from TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, bolstering their attacking options ahead of the new season. The 26-year-old arrives on a free transfer following a prolific spell in the Frauen Bundesliga, where she scored 34 goals in just 47 appearances across two campaigns.
Arsenal secure prolific German striker
Head coach Renée Slegers welcomed the forward to the squad, calling her a “great addition”. Slegers highlighted Cerci’s physical presence and eye for goal, noting that “impressive goalscoring numbers” and “forward intent” made her an ideal fit for the team’s ambitions.
Arsenal’s director of football, Clare Wheatley, endorsed the move by describing Cerci as “an instinctive goalscorer with a proven record in the Bundesliga”. The striker previously represented Werder Bremen and Bayern Munich’s second team before establishing herself at Hoffenheim.
Cerci, who has netted five times in 20 senior appearances for Germany since her debut in February 2022, expressed her enthusiasm for the switch to English football. “I’m very excited to be here – it’s a big honour to play for Arsenal and I can’t wait to start,” she said. “This is an opportunity to compete against and play alongside top players in one of the best leagues in the world.”
The capture marks Arsenal’s second signing from the German top flight this summer, following the earlier arrival of midfielder Georgia Stanway from Bayern Munich.
Kaneryd departs Chelsea for Lyon
In a separate major move, OL Lyonnes have confirmed the signing of Sweden winger Johanna Rytting Kaneryd from Chelsea. The 29-year-old leaves the Women’s Super League after a successful three-year stint, having contributed 17 goals and 26 assists in 139 appearances for the London club.
Kaneryd’s departure severs her connection to a Chelsea side with whom she claimed seven major trophies, including three WSL titles, two FA Cups and two League Cups. She has committed to a three-year deal with the French giants, who finished as runners-up in last season’s Women’s Champions League.
The twin announcements signal significant squad reshuffling among Europe’s elite clubs, with Arsenal reinforcing their forward line while Lyonnes strengthen their wide attacking options as they seek to reclaim continental supremacy.