Arsenal Women have completed the signing of Spanish international defender Ona Batlle on a free transfer from Barcelona.
The 27-year-old full-back has agreed to a four-year contract with an option for an additional year.
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Batlle spent three successful seasons at Barcelona, making 114 appearances and scoring 14 goals. She previously played in England for Manchester United.
The 2023 World Cup winner, who has 76 international caps, expressed her excitement about returning to English football.
"Arsenal is one of the biggest clubs in the world and I can't wait to feel the joy of playing in front of our supporters at Emirates Stadium alongside so many great players," Batlle said.
She emphasized her ambition to win trophies with her new team.
"I want to win trophies and I feel this is the right place to achieve that," she added.
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Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers praised the acquisition, highlighting Batlle's physical attributes and competitive mindset.
"I'm delighted that we've been able to bring Ona to the club," Slegers said. "She's a hugely experienced full-back with strong attacking intent and great physical attributes.
She's a winner and we want to go for more wins together."
Director of Women's Football Clare Wheatley also expressed enthusiasm about the transfer.
"Ona's track record at both club and international level speaks for itself," Wheatley said. "She's a proven winner with a hunger to add more trophies.
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We're delighted to bring one of the best defenders in the world to Arsenal."
